How to Market Yourself As An Agent
As
an agent, it’s crucial to have a high profile. Marketing yourself is just as
important as marketing your properties.
You need to stand out from other real estate agents. Here are 5 tips on
how:
Tip
1: Billboards and Leaflets
Billboards
and leaflets are the traditional means of showcasing an agent. They still
remain pivotal, especially if there’s an image or photograph. Think about it: a
massive billboard above a busy intersection where many cars stop each day is
fantastic advertising. It’s very expensive, but it’s also necessary. The main
thing to be aware of is how prominent your picture is. Most people take in
information visually. That means they remember faces better than names. So make
sure you have a photo of yourself you’re happy with – remember it will be
displayed to thousands!
Tip
2: Online Video
A
video allows you to really show prospective clients what you’re made of. It is
probably the best way you can demonstrate your skills. Ideally, a video profile
shouldn’t be longer than two minutes. Most people have a short-attention span
when it comes to corporate videos, so keep it snappy. Your video should show you in action, selling
homes and consulting with clients. Also, former clients giving you glowing
testimonials on camera is really helpful. Investing in property can be
daunting, and so many prospective clients will be encouraged by these positive
recommendations of your work. You will want to have your video displayed on
your agency’s website, as well as YouTube or MySpace. The important thing is to
get it out to as many people as possible.
Tip
3: Sales Records
Ultimately
all prospective clients will be interested in your success as an agent. So you
need to display this whenever possible. For instance, if you’re part of a
Melbourne-based real estate agent and you sold a home in Brunswick for a record
amount then you should let all other owners in that area know. Sending out a
special leaflet with your sales achievement may bring you some new clients.
Wherever possible, your strong sales records should be listed on every bit of
marketing you do.
Tip
4: Go the Extra Step
You
can also market yourself outside of the real estate world. Take an active part
in your local community. Consider sponsoring a local event or festival or
charity. You’ll be doing some good and also getting your name out there. If you
want to go further, maybe attach yourself in the long term to something you
consider worthwhile. Perhaps there’s a fundraising event in your area you
support: an arts organisation or a regular fun run. Being a financial sponsor
can be very rewarding to both parties and will give you excellent promotion.
Tip
5: Marketing Through Social Networks
Using
social media platforms can be a wonderful way of promoting yourself. Sites such
as Twitter, MySpace and Facebook allow you to build up your own network and to
send through regular feeds and updates. It doesn’t cost you anything and you
can directly communicate with possible buyers. Keep it relevant and interesting
– you could give property
investment advice and other tips related to your work. People who find it
useful and interesting are then more likely to think of you when they need an
estate agent. To make the most of social media you need to use it frequently,
to keep your followers interested. Don’t be afraid to promote your successes –
it all helps in keeping your name out there.