If there is an equation that can define a real estate career’s success, it would be this: a more extensive network equals more opportunities. Of course, it isn’t that simple. Building a network isn’t easy for all agents, even for the stereotypical extroverted real estate agent. Still, even those who don’t enjoy networking can learn to become good at it. In this post, we will examine how those who are set on becoming a real estate agent can build their network.
Joining The Right Brokerage When Becoming a Real Estate Agent
This bit of advice gets overlooked, but it’s the most beneficial thing you can do. Joining a brokerage that will help agents grow is a beneficial means of jumpstarting real estate careers. A reputable brokerage will connect you not only to other real estate agents but also to prospective clients.
The right real estate brokerage isn’t just going to hire you and send you out the fish for clients. For one, a good brokerage will offer training and coaching that exposes you to other agents so that you can rub shoulders and learn from (and with) your peers. That may include one-on-one or group coaching as well as classroom and in-field training.
A good brokerage will generate leads so that you get exposure to two qualified clients sooner and easier. That allows you to spend more time expanding your network and less time marketing yourself.
For example, here at our Zoocasa, we provide in-depth coaching and training for new agents, which puts them side-by-side with other agents. We also streamline the process of finding clients by providing our real estate agents with qualified leads.
Join a Real Estate Agent Community
Some real estate agents fall into the school of thought that they need to be self-made and create all opportunities for themselves. That is flawed thinking. The folks who build successful real estate careers, tend to be members of a community.
That may involve going to a physical meet-up, or during this era of COVID-19, it could be a virtual group on social media or a forum. Regardless of where and how the community looks, your goal should be to meet other agents who can connect you with clients. Of course, etiquette matters too. You should join to want to contribute to that community, rather than engaging solely in self-promo.
Volunteering Can Get You Real Estate Jobs
Don’t underestimate the power of goodwill. Contributing to your community or others is a great way to build a rapport with people who may become your clients one day. Of course, volunteering should come from a genuine personal obligation, not just to get clients. Nevertheless, you can promote yourself as a real estate agent to people with whom you’ve built a strong relationship.
Volunteering is great because it’s also flexible. You can join a local cause for something in your neighbourhood, or you can join a social media group devoted to a specific interest or movement that you have a natural affinity for. The key to volunteering is to put charity first business second.
Becoming a Real Estate Agent May Mean Knocking on Doors
The whole idea of approaching doorsteps might not be your cup of tea. It’s not even advisable at the moment because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it has been a way for real estate agents to get their names out there before. It might soon be a means to jumpstart real estate careers again.
Going door-to-door is an approachable way of introducing yourself. You can set the tone by presenting yourself as an advocate for people looking to make the right deal home buying purchase – not just a real estate agent.
You can use door-knocking opportunities as a way to build a rapport with your potential client base. Chat not only about your real estate goals but also, your interests, hobbies and getting to know these clients better. It may seem somewhat intimidating, but it is still a valuable tool for those who want to become a real estate agent.
Cast a Wide Net for a Successful Real Estate Career
Having a real estate agent license is just one component of success in the field. Real estate careers are built from having solid networks for clients. Of course, there are many ways to expand a network, so it’s a matter of choosing the most effective methods. Joining a real estate brokerage that provides training and coaching but also lead generation is an effective way for new agents to build a solid client base.
Of course, some of the other methods mentioned here, such as volunteering and joining communities, can help you find additional opportunities. Networking may seem like a challenge for those who are becoming a real estate agent. However, once you start to build your base of clients, your confidence will grow, and you’ll get a kick out of the process.
Are you ready to become a real estate agent or further your existing career? Get in touch with us to learn more about our training and coaching program!
