6 Out-of-the-Box Ways Real Estate Agents Can Network in 2023
Networking is a powerful way to meet new people, grow your client base, and build your brand. Get 6 unique ways to network as a real estate agent.
Finding new ways to network can seem overwhelming or even flat-out intimidating. While your normal networking methods may work fine to make a connection here or there, you want to ensure consistent networking is a part of your routine.
Whether generating new leads, finding new vendors, or coming across a referral, your clientele should always be growing. Networking is a powerful way to meet new people to help make this happen. But instead of going the predictable route, there are other ways to amplify your networking — and even make it fun.
The Power of Networking
Taking the time to network regularly can pay dividends when growing your business. Networking helps you meet new people who can become a part of your clientele, meaning you can generate leads and even gain new referrals.
Networking can also increase your brand’s awareness and trust as you establish a powerful reputation in your local market.
There Are More Ways to Network
It’s not enough to go to a mixer here or there, tag along to the occasional seminar, or hand out your business card and hope for the best; networking needs to be consistent, meaningful, and authentic.
Investing your time wisely can go a long way in growing your sphere of influence. Beyond the well-known approaches like Facebook groups or networking events, we’re uncovering 6 unlikely ways to network you can take advantage of.
A good rule of thumb? Make sure you choose the networking methods that spark joy and make you want to come back to them time and time again to drive consistency.
#1. Volunteer in Your Community
A great way to become known face-to-face in your area, build trust, and make a difference in your community? Volunteering.
Volunteering with a local organization to support a cause you’re passionate about or service the local community can be powerful. Showing, not just telling, you’re passionate about your area goes a long way in building trust and credibility in your brand and business.
You’re not just in the business of buying or selling homes — you’re here to help serve your community.
#2. Sponsor Events in Your Local Market
Tying into the theme of service we saw above, sponsoring events in your local market is an excellent way to get more eyes on your brand and position yourself as a figure in the community.
Consider sponsoring local sports events, fundraisers, new business mixers, and more. Not only will you increase your brand’s visibility, but you’ll also have ample opportunity to unlock more ways to network at these functions.
#3. Join Online Groups (and Use Them Wisely)
Go beyond the typical and join other online groups outside of your usual wheelhouse and not focused solely on real estate.
Engage regularly with other members in these groups, but make sure you’re not just pushing real estate. Offer other expertise and perspective to grow organic connections in networking. Beyond Facebook, consider online platforms like Nextdoor and Reddit.
And remember: keep things professional and appropriate, especially when representing your business.
#4. Explore New Hobbies
If you already have a hobby you’re passionate about, you’re ahead of the game!
Use your existing hobby to connect with others with the same interest via local meetup groups, teams, or online platforms like Meetup.com. Not sure if your hobby is networking-friendly? Use it to your advantage and explore new hobbies through these same meetup opportunities, or by taking classes.
You never know who you can network with while trying out pottery classes or beginners’ pickleball lessons. You may even discover you have a knack for your new hobby.
#5. Be Active in Local Groups
Your community likely has a chapter of professional organizations like Rotary Club, Toastmasters, Business Networking International (BNI), and real estate associations.
These groups were made to serve the local community specifically, as well as provide ample opportunity to grow your skills, share your expertise with others, and network regularly.
Use Google, Facebook, or even local classified ads to find out what chapters are available near you.
#6. Use Your Furry Friends
Believe it or not, you can use your beloved furry family members as partners-in-crime for networking.
Join a pet-centric meetup group, volunteer at a pet-oriented organization, or simply start mingling at the dog park, pet shop, or your evening walk. With this approach, you can have confidence you already have something in common with the people around you, and can network organically.
As you get dive into the world of networking, make sure your profile on RealEstateAgents.com is claimed and optimized today. You can also use our Personal Referral Network to find top level agents to serve your clients across the entire country!
