What’s the Buzz from Social Media Week?

If opening day presentations for Social Media Week (Sept. 19-23) at NAR made one thing clear, it’s that it’s important for REALTORS to jump in. Whether you Tweet or post to your Facebook page daily or once a week, simply having a social media presence helps demonstrate you’re plugged-in to today’s business world. 

And what’s not to love? Social media is free and can be accomplished well without a major time investment.

While a couple of NAR presenters attested to direct links between their social media activity and increased sales, most weren’t willing to commit to such a claim. Instead, they promoted the unquestionable value of social media for maintaining regular communications with their clients (mostly through Facebook) and colleagues they’ve met at conferences and seminars (mostly through Twitter). 

Presenters also highlighted the importance of social media for keeping an ear to the ground for what other REALTORS are saying -- and tuning in to news and trends.

The best users of social media for business are those who blend professionalism with personality and provide information that’s meaningful to their followers and friends. That means going beyond posting your listings and open houses. Maybe not even posting them at all -- unless relevant to an online conversation.

User reviews are another realm of social media that’s becoming increasingly important, presenters say. To help establish your name and local expertise, post user reviews of restaurants and other businesses you frequent in your service area. And, ask satisfied clients to post reviews of you.  

For more, check out the Social Media Week schedule and try to catch some of the remaining presentations in Chicago.

Chicago Association of REALTORS