If you have been in the real estate business for a while, you have seen many changes in both the industry, and the methods we use to market ourselves. We are inundated every day with calls from salespersons pushing the latest and the greatest products and services, and we often have to make decisions based on cost versus expected return on investment.
But one of the most cost effective promotional devices available is still ignored by the majority in the business. Professional blogging is an easy way to get exposure both within the industry and to the consuming public.
My ActiveRain blog has given me a recognition factor that is unmatched in m my area, and it hasn't cost me a dime! And I have been willing to share my expertise with anyone that will listen and the response has been most surprising:
When I offer to help a friend or coworker establish a blog, I meet resistance. This never ceases to amaze me. Although the service is free of charge, and the Google SEO possibilities are endless, and the potential reward is great, they find reasons to discount blogging as a genuine professional activity.
Well, I have come to a conclusion. You can stand in front of this barreling juggernaut with your arms outstretched and try to stop it, or you can just climb aboard and enjoy the ride.
It's entirely up to you!
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of ERA United Realty and Coweta Fayette Real Estate of ERA United Realty Newnan Georgia. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2008.
Learn more about Coweta County and Fayette County Georgia Real Estate, and Lake West Point Lots.
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate Better Homes and Gardens Metro Brokers, Newnan Georgia. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2009. Richard Weisser REOS, E-Pro. licensed Auctioneer. 770-827-6225.
Learn more about Coweta County and Fayette County Georgia Real Estate, and to search the entire Georgia MLS for free with no registration required visit CowetaFayetteRealEstate.com! Photos of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Get the latest GA Foreclosure List Updated Daily! We Do HUD bids in Georgia! 770-827-6225
I have the same resistance when I try and get some of my Agents to start blogging. Its lead ,follow or get out of my way! LOL. Great view!
I'm trying to learn from more experienced bloggers like you, Richard. This is fun to do too. Just gotta know when to not spend too much time on here!
Thanks for your posts.
Laura J...
Thanks. I can never figure out why anyone would ague with free?
Tom...
You can never spend TOO much time! lol
Richard, This isn't the first change in the real estate profession that has been met with change and it won't be the last. After something has been implemented for a while you just scratch your head thinking about how it was in the past...and most times, it wasn't "the good old days."
Richard, I get the same resistance too. Not so much from other KW offices I speak at but in my own. Sure there are some that blog but nothing like the extent I do. If they don't want to tackle blogging, then no way are they going to do Social Media.
I am on board and enjoying the travel! Rain down on me!!!
I get the same reaction. I think it's fear of the unknown, who knows. Good for you for offering a helping hand...that's encouraging for those looking to get started from a man who knows exactly what he's doing! KM
I meet so many agents that are really excited about the idea of blogging and I actually get them motivated enough to set up an account, but that is usually as far as it goes.
I think a lot of people are overwehlmed by all the new technology and other still think the market will just bounce back overnight and out if the blue their phone will ring again.
Rich...
Maybe it;s because I enjoy it too much, but this just seems way too easy!
Missy...
And they are missing out on so much. It does take discipline, but it is far from back breaking!
Caren...
It's fun, isn't it. And if you have fum while you work isn't that just the best thing ever?
Kristin...
But a lot of it is learning by doing, and how an you do THAT if you don't do? lol
Anne...
I think too that a lot don't think that their experiences are exiting enough to write about. And I say, write 20 or so posts and you'll get the idea!
Richard, I've done everything I can think of to get my agents to start blogging. I think they expect me to give them the leads I'm receiving as a result of blogging. Everything requires a little work and blogging is no exception, but it pays off in the long run. In the end it's entirely up to them.
Michael...
But it beats cold calling to pieces. And you get some many other benefits other than leads, so I just wonder what the real problem is. Could it just be good old-fashioned laziness?
We have a few friends like that..they just don't get it. Or worse yet some of them start, seem to have a knack for it and then just stop. Frustrating!
Ditto. I can't tell you how many people I have tried to invite to AR that have either accepted and never posted anything or never even bothered to look into it. Boy what a big mistake they are making...
You are right, again. For the cost this blogging thing can't be beat! BTW, your photos are always interesting.
Richard - I think a lot of people fear blogging, simply because it involves writing. Not everyone is a superstar writer, but what they don't seem to get is that blogging isn't about writing perfectly. Some of my favorite bloggers make some serious mistakes (grammar, spelling, etc.) while writing, but I don't think it affects the message. I write how I speak, so many times my posts seem a bit rambling and I always use more commas than necessary. Its an old habit that I've never been able to get rid of, even after teachers came down hard on me for it. I just keep encouraging people to try it, jump on in and give it a go. Its surprising how many people will come out of the woodwork to help, encourage, and teach.
Richard I couldn't agree with you more. I was just telling someone in the office the other day how wonderful active rain was and they seemed so closed minded to the idea of networking with other agents.
Richard, they are missing out. I have not really made any money or leads from my blogging efforts, but the knowledge and friendship I find here are priceless. Hopefully, the leads will follow, but if not, I'll just enjoy catching up with my new found friends.
I have to admit a few months ago I was one of those people who resisted. I have turned over a new leaf,slowly, but surely, and am now on AR each day. I have not graduated beyond the basics yet, but that will come in time. Thanks for the encouragement!
Richard, thanks to you and my other mentors here on the Rain, I have branched out. The contacts I have made make this a worthwhile endeavour no matter if I get business from it or not. But, I remain convinced that the Google Juice alone will spawn some interest somewhere down the TRACK (a bow to your beautiful photograph).
I, too, have tried to encourage other agents to blog. None from our office though since I am the only agent! Some of these agents are average in technology skills but can't imagine the experience of writing each day. I set up my account in March and then largely ignored it until I stumbled across you, Brad Andersohn, Jeff Turner, Amanda Hall and so many others who stretch my mind each morning. This and a cup or two of coffee gets my adrenalin going for the day. Thank you, my friend! I may not blog each day, but I at least read and comment here and there.
If agents are not embracing the latest marketing techniques they are really missing out. I agree, there is much resistance to blogging but I think that will change.
By Jove I believe that you are onto something there my friend. The possibilities are endless.
Richard, thanks for your enthusiastic promotion of blogging. It definitely gives you an elevated Internet presence. I think some who don't blog just don't find the time for it or are not naturally good writers. You have been very consistent with it.
CHOO! CHOO! ALL ABOARD! The internet today allows us more chances to expand ourselves than we even have time for. The key is to DO SOMETHING!
Monika...
I think that they are looking for instant results. and that rarely occurs!
Michael K...
And the worst part is, one day they will ask you why you never told them about AR! AFTER you have invited them! lol
Gary W...
Thanks, The steam loco was taken about 1985, so it's been archived for a while!
Matt S...
I can't remember anyone criticizing any one's writing skills, can you? Most responses have been very encouraging. And if you are not a great writer, what a FANTASTIC opportunity to improve your skills!
Scott B...
If they would only listen!!!
Susan my dear...
I think that it would be rare for someone to call out of the blue and say "I saw you on ActiveRain." I think it's more of a general kind of exposure, and you will be recognized after the fact. Big Mike Saunders wrote a post once about being the red shirt guy. Hey mike, post the link here if you can find it!
Hi Richard. You are correct sir.
I have spoken of it's advantages in office meetings, but it is still looked at with lots of skepticism.
Hopefully, we will lead the way.
Ken
Richard - great post here. There are so many who do not understand the benefit of blogging or the "point" of blogging. It is to develop on-line relationships. And like you - I am happy to share information here and the majority of readers truly appreciate "how to" blogs.
Well Richard I will tell you this . . I am willing to listen to anything you want to tell me. I am counting on blogging to keep me in real estate. My website did it for me for 3 years. I got so busy I didn't keep up. Now I am jumping on the train and hoping it will keep me in real estate. It is tuff here in Michigan but it is an awesome place to buy!!!
GREAT train pics. We have Strausburg Railroad about 2 hours from here in PA ... You probably know of them growing up in Pittsburg. Our family always enjoyed the trains and going for rides on them in the winter. As far as blogging - businesses are throwing away free money if not doing it. I will start teaching classes on blogging in the Spring, because in my 3 months on AR, I've learned so much and have gained business - and man can it be fun.
Richard - That's just it, I find the blogging community (not just here at ActiveRain or within real estate, but the entire community) to be rather welcoming and helpful. I have made some monsterous blunders in my writing at times, but no one took the time to call me an idiot. Just the opposite. I think its just a base fear that people have in them. I hated writing in school, because I was never good at reports and such. When we did creative writing, I enjoyed that...more free form and more my style. That worked for me. I read some blogs that are just like a school report though and they're well written and come off great. I think the heart of blogging is being who you are...just let the words flow. Type out what you're thinking. If you need to, go back and edit (although I rarely do). No matter what though, just get in there and do it. I'm trying to groom a few agents I know into bloggers...they will get there eventually.
Another great post from the famous Richard Weisser. Please keep posting I injoy your post very much.
Edward
Kristin J...
If you hang around us long enough, you'll do just fine. Although some have suggested that we are a bad influence! lol
Suzanne...
Here and there my foot! You are sneaking reads all the time and you know it! lol and thanks for the wonderful comment. I have often said that the biggest enhancement to my posts is the quality of the comments!
Mel...
It has changed the overall quality of my life ... what more needs to be said after that! And one of the best benefits has been my friendship with you. That means more to me than you'll ever know!
Name recognition is great... I have been introduced several time, by colleagues, as that guy from the internet.
Don...
They really are. I think that we have all honed our skills along the way, and we are better communicators, that's for sure!
Gary W #2...
But I wasn't a good writer when I started ... it's a skill I have enhanced with the daily ritual of reading fine posts like yours and writing SOMETHING every day!
Bill...
And if that something happens to be FREE, so much the better. BTW I have tons of train pic, I'll try to post a lot more!
Hi Richard, I agree...blogging gives us a platform and recognition like no other, today, in real estate and for FREE. I think there are always going to be agents resistant to change and new ideas. That will never change. You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink. GREAT POST! Keep blogging - you're doing an outstanding job!
Ken...
I just don't understand why this is an issue? I guess we're just smarter than the average agents!
Sharon...
That's a big part of the beauty of the system. Those that stick to it are the "givers!"
Tami V...
I saw several HGTV shows about the strong buyer's market there, especially for first time buyers! Hang in there with us and we'll keep you motivated!
Richard,
I receive the same "attitutude", it just amazes me. That's ok though. Our names are going up, up, up on the Google ranks and where are the others?? LOST in the net. Ha ha to them. :)
Richard: Resistance seems to be what we are all met with when we try to get our co-workers on board with blogging. It's bizarre. I sometimes think if someone came in the office with a designer suit and saying all the same things I did, but charged them $500 a year, they'd be more interested.
So far the ride has been fun. We need to watch the signs for new changes to the market place and go where our clients are.
Richard- I still can't believe how many people are blog-resistant. How can they deny the positive impact that blogging can have (when done right)? There are so many stories here on the Rain of business generated from blogging. Those nay-sayers need to get on board!
Richard-don't feel bad recently I had a reality check and it made me realize some will be left behind...yes I get tons of resistance...but the good thing is I am resistent. I don't give up so easily because I know in time..without income..they will look forward to it but its a shame its usually forced! Meaning their pocket book will eventually make them blog or at least market their inventory on line.
Oh, yes, the same here. Many get cold feet before even signing up, or worse they just don't see the benefits!!! Some have also said they feel so overwhelmed with all this blogging, social network, etc. that they don't even know where to start. We've offered to help,but nothing. ~Rita
I don't even mention blooging any more as most think I'm nuts for spending time at this. Closed my first transaction from blogging about ten days ago and the buyer found me through my blog. I like that ROI !!!.
Steve K...
Have you ever been to the East Broad Top RR in Orbisonia PA? Great place, and they still have narrow gauge live steam running on the original rails!
Matt S,,,
Sorry for the delay in responding, I'm having trouble keeping up, but this is definitely a learn by doing process!
Edward...
Thanks!
Alan...
Don't you just love it when that happens!
Sandy...
Why thank you for all of those kind words. I really enjoy blogging and have met many nice people too!
April...
Yeah, we are bad to the bone, aren't we? lol
Chris Ann...
You know, I think that you are brilliant! If someone made them pay monthly fees they would be all over it! Very good point!
Terry...
Yes we do, and if we make some friends in the meantime, so much the better!
Ilyce...
Yes they do. BTW if you need an Atlanta Real Estate expert the next time you do Clark's show, give me a call! ;)
Richard, it is the train of the future ad it is sweeping through the stations of America and the world at a pace that is dizzying. If you don't hop on, it will leave you behind and if you do, you better hang on, becasue it is wild and crazy ride....It is fun though!
Bo
Isn't that the truth! When Bloggin FIRST came out, several years ago, I called my Tecky friend ans said 'What is this? Do you know?'. I was answered with, another passing trend, don't worry about it!! WELL is it?? I have been blogging since September and I have an appointment with a lead this week!! WHOO HOOO! I love it!!
Midori...
And what I found out is this: The later you start the harder it is to catch up! But having a successful blog is an attainable goal!
Rita...
But you have to start somewhere, don't you? That's what I keep trying to tell them!
Cameron...
And once everything is in place, it gets easier! Way to go, my friend!
Bo..
Wow, that was almost poetic! Very nicely stated/
Mary..
Well congratulations. I know that I'm not giving up on this "fad" anytime soon!
It is amazing that more realtors don't take advantage of blogging. Like other things in real estate it takes patience and perseverance, maybe that's what's holding them back! ;}
Richard - No problem. This is a popular post, so I understand. By the way, I should mention I love your photos. Awesome colors in them makes them very eye-catching.
Richard- SHHHH! Keep it a secret. I want to be so far ahead of the competition in my area they will never catch up.
Awe shucks. You make me blush. Right back at ya!
Hi Richard... what a great post. I have had similar conversations with many other bloggers and have discovered that I am not the only one who faces this. You post just reinforces that! Thanks for sharing.
Laura G...
I guess it is just laziness after all! THX
Matt...
I use a lot of filtering! Top is a film photo, bottom is digital!
Tammy...
If you keep going, they can NEVER catch you! ;)
Mel...
Well, it does mean a lot to me!
Steve S...
And they laugh at me! Well one day, they won't be laughing.
You are absolutely correct why do people not listen about the Internet. It is amazing the Realtors that do not have a Internet presence and even more amazing of the Realtors that do not own a computer. What generation are they in? Change is usually a challenge for some of us but well worth the effort.
I've tried to help everyone in my office join AR and set up a blog, but no one has done so.
Dona...
I just don't know how they think that they will succeed in the Internet age!
JL...
Hmmm I guess they just don't get it!
Richard - "He who hesitates is lost". I love being in the "fast track" and those who don't get on board now will be left in the dust. Too many agents just don't see the long term benefits of blogging and what an impact it can have on their business. While they're sending out postcards and mailers that get ultimately get thrown in the trash, our posts have a shelf life online that is priceless.
Change is hell, isn't it? It's one of those 'hard to teach an old dog new tricks' things. I've been there, but there are some waves you have to catch or be washed out to sea by. This is one of them. Now, why the heck isn't there a little gold star next to this one?
Donna...
First, congratulations on getting the quote correct. Most say "last" instead of "lost." "Online shelf life!" I love that, and THAT is priceless!
Jesse...
You've read my mind my friend. 65 "unjacked" comments and no feature. I would be lying if I said that I wasn't disappointed!"
Jesse, is Richard fishing for a jacking?? Hi Richard!!
Hi Susan..
My computer is moving so slow I can hardly stand it!