Stay Connected, Even When You’re Busy
Staying connected is one of the most important activities we have in real estate. Once we lose connectivity in this relationship-based business, it’s very difficult to get the momentum back. The people who will have the biggest impact on your business are those you already know: your friends and your family. Making time to connect is the first place to put some effort in.
Here are some ideas on how to be productive by staying connected, even in the busiest months:
GET IT ON THE CALENDAR
The same way you’d put a dentist appointment or inspection. Once it’s on your calendar, work hard to never cancel an appointment.
GET IT ON THE CALENDAR, AGAIN AND AGAIN
Make it regular to make it happen. If you have someone in your life you really want to connect with on a larger level, make meeting with them a regular occurrence.
DON’T OVERTHINK IT
We’re only talking about connecting with people already in your COI. Instead of seeing it as a task to check off your list, keep the socializing low pressure. Enjoy it, and don’t try too hard.
OR GO BIG
Sometimes, big get-togethers are easier to prioritize than smaller ones. Think about an annual event — something others will look forward to, like a party or trip. Take the reins and put it together.
PAY IN ADVANCE
You’re less likely to bail if you pay now. Book the event, buy your pop-by items or put down a non-refundable deposit.
MAKE CONNECTIONS
Connect people who wouldn’t otherwise meet and who may provide value to each other.
GET OUT OF THE OFFICE FOR LUNCH
First of all, taking a break to eat is very important for your productivity. Leverage that time by inviting people to eat with you. People have to eat — they might as well eat with you!
USE YOUR PHONE EFFECTIVELY
One of the most impactful phone calls or texts you can make is simply, “It’s been a while since we’ve talked, and I was just thinking about you. Would love to catch up.”
USE SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook can’t replace real human contact, but it can help keep your friendships going in between visits. Use it for relationships first and foremost, and don’t forget that Facebook Messenger can be a useful tool for staying connected and setting appointments.
SCHEDULE ONE NIGHT A WEEK TO GO DO SOMETHING
Lots of options here: bunco, book club, softball, poker, wine club. Take something you already enjoy doing, and add others to make it better.
The opportunities to connect with others are limitless. Make the effort to connect with people on a real level, and your business will work for you even when you’re not working. Your friends and family should be first on the list. From there, work hard to connect with past clients and peers from previous careers.
Finally, not all relationships can last through the busy years, and not all should. Friendships should energize you, so when time is tight, it’s best to invest your time and energy in the relationships you already know enrich your life. And never get too busy for that.
