Members of the Commercial Alliance of REALTORS met today at the MSU Secchia Center for a class on Social Media and Networking for real estate professionals. The class was a joint production taught by Internet Marketing Strategist, Jonathan Mast of Valorous Circle and Lola Audu, Real Estate Broker & Social Media Trainer.
Approximately 40 individuals participated in the hour and a half presentation which included a question and answer segment. The real estate industry has been challenged to change due to the economic realities which have emerged from the housing crisis. Like other professionals, real estate agents are looking a way to maximize benefits and reduce cost while marketing and effectively communicating with strategic partners.
As a real estate professional, I was able to share my real world experience of starting a company 7 years ago and having to create a web presence from scratch. A challenge which was highlighted by the fact that I had developed a fairly robust presence online due to my association with a previous company. After investing time, effort and money into starting the company, I was dismayed to find that the major search engines were not ranking me at all. The process through which I gained top ranking for many key words including of course, the recognition of my company as a real estate broker in West Michigan is what I shared with the Brokers and Agents present.
Social Media is here to stay. While it does not replace other media such as print, radio or TV, it continues to assert an increasingly significant impact on how information is transmitted and shared. In any business in which the ability to influence and persuade is important, this tool must be a part of the marketing tool kit.
To learn more about Social Media Training in West Michigan, click on the following links:
Social Media Solutions for Business Professionals
Real Estate Continuing Education Classes
Lola Audu/Blogging Seminars has provided Services to the following organizations: (partial list)
Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce – Chamber University
Grand Rapids Association of REALTORS – Social Media Training
Commercial Alliance of REALTORS – Social Media Training
National Association of REALTORS – featured reporting member for National Conventions
Ann Arbor Area Board of REALTORS – Social MarketingTraining
Claire-Gladwin Board of REALTORS – Social Media Training
Lansing Association of REALTORS – Social Media Training/ RE Barcamp
Five Star Real Estate – Agent Training/Social Media
E-Management – Webinar, Social Media Training
One can hardly turn on any form of media today and not hear about Pinterest. The latest ‘HOT’ social media portal has garnered incredible media attention. Many gurus of the real estate industry and business in general are urging folks to get around to ‘Pinning Stuff’ as a means of enhancing online influence.
Thus far, I’ve refused to be enticed. Somewhat unusual for me as in the past, I’ve been on the bleeding edge of many innovative moves. I well remember talking to a real estate Broker in 2006 about my initial foray onto the blogosphere and being met with a blank stare and the question…’What’s a blog?‘
My issue is not with the site itself. I’m sure that Pinterest offers value to many who use it. However, overtime, I’ve become more aware of a more insidious aspect of online social engagement. Issues which morph larger (perhaps even exponentially) with every new addition to the social media wheel of fortune.
1. Time Wasting
It’s astounding the amount of time which can be wasted online. Some experts note that the average person is spending more time in front of a computer than the TV. And we all know how much time TV viewing sucked out of our lives.
Online social media sites and the Internet in general can suck vast amounts of time because of the seduction of the next click. What might one find? What new connection might be made? What about the latest gossip or trend? Before you know it, time has whizzed by, often at the expense of something that really needed an investment of attention but was not as fascinating.
2. Real Life Connecting
It’s easy to think that online engagement can somehow take the place of meeting in real life. It won’t and can’t! Our concept of ‘friends’ has become so skewed that we now think it’s normal to have millions of followers and thousands of friends. In fact, we have sites that claim to judge our influence and status based on these types of stats. Really???
This may be one of the more depleting elements of developing a healthy professional life for members of the real estate community. Even as it seems to offer the promise of expanding the reach of one’s professional network. The truth is thatanyone can project anything they want to online. Even when people strive to be ‘authentic’, it’s next to impossible because life is multi-dimensional; something not easily fully captured within a 140 bit tweet, blog or even video.
You can’t fully translate the look in someone’s eye, or the feeling that you get when talking to them or the warmth that is generated in engaged conversation into the limited ’space’ of online engagement. Even when connections start online, it’s important to have the goal of meeting a client and talking to them in person to fully understand the needs and concerns that need to be addressed and acknowledged.
3. Managing Connectivity
The idea of managing one’s online connections is often discussed within the context of helping us to be even MORE efficient in connecting with even MORE people. I’m beginning to think that this approach misses a broader point. What is really being gained by getting more and more stuff out to more places? Especially, when some of these places are sites you don’t even visit or participate in? To some extent, I believe that we will eventually discover that being online is not entirely different than engaging in other spaces within our lives.
I find it difficult to have 10 BEST friends. You probably do too. The fact is that excessive levels of connection are simply exhausting and eventually counter-productive. What is deeply satisfying is engaging with people with whom you share real interest and who provide inspiration, insight and knowledge. Real Connectivity is happens naturally. It’s what human beings are designed to do.
Image credit courtesy of repres on flickr
Over 225 Brokers, Agents, Mortgage Lenders, Stagers, Real Estate Technology Specialists, Media and Title Company Professionals enjoyed a date with ‘Technology’ on steroids today as the Grand Rapids Association of REALTORS hosted the 2011 ReBar Camp at Bar Divani.
Grand Rapids real estate professionals were joined by agents from various parts of Michigan who are in town to attend the Michigan Association of REALTORS Convention which starts tomorrow, the 28th of September.
The technology conference focused attention and education of a variety of social media and technology related topics. A purely volunteer effort included donations from sponsors and time, energy and education from individuals in a variety of areas. For many, the deluge of information was a little overwhelming…but where else can you get all this good stuff in a one day setting for FREE!
Lola Audu, the 2011 President of the Grand Rapids Association of REALTORS conducted a class on ‘Social Graphing’, which explored the power of online connections with regards to networking, establishing expertise and marketing. The session also provided participants with an introduction to the new Facebook format and the Google Plus platform.
More photos can be found here:
Blogging Seminars provides a variety of training tools for business professionals and organizations. Here’s a list of current seminar topics. We are also able to customize a presentation for your organization and provide personalized professional coaching as well.
Social Media Essentials for Organizations – Time: 2 hours
This class covers the essentials that you need to know including: where to start, how to create a plan and what sites are critical for business professionals. Also covers basic blogging do’s and don’ts. The format is informative and not highly technical. Appropriate for Beginner to intermediate levels of experience with online networking.
Social Media Conversations for the Marketplace – Time: 1 hour
This class focuses on how to leverage your connections through online engagement. The term ‘Whuffie’ is sometimes used to describe what is referred to as ’social capital’. As more business is conducted online, it is becoming clear that the influence of networking is expanding in ways previously unimagined. It’s important to understand how to create and manage social capital and also the keys to protecting and preserving this valuable network of contacts. Recommended for all levels of experience in online media and networking
Relationship Marketing – Bridging the Gap Time: 1 .5 hours
So, how do you bridge the gap between traditional norms of creating networking and business opportunities and navigating unknown territories in the online world? This practical class is highly interactive and engages the audience through real life scenarios. It can also be customized to reflect the challenges faced by a particular industry. The seminar includes discussion on risk management, cyber security, ROI, generational market trends and strategic planning. Recommended for intermediate to advanced levels in online media engagement.
The 360 Degree Wake Effect Time: 1 hour
This seminar explores the power of a little Shift. Relationship Marketing is covered through the power of story telling and metaphor. The session is highly interactive and is suitable for all levels of online experience. Also recommended for Keynote Speech
Social Media Marketing for Business Professionals Time: 2 hours
This comprehensive class covers a wide variety of topics which impact the business arena. The class format includes information on: why social media is important for business today, monitoring the ROI – Return On Investment of time and resources, communication and networking within a generational context, how to create a social media strategy and plan and insights on how to leverage contacts on the major social media network portals of Linkedin, Facebook and Twitter. Suitable for all levels of social media experience.
Linkedin, Twitter & Facebook for Beginners Time: 2 hours
This class focuses on the fundamentals. Participants are encouraged to bring their personal computers. The session teaches the basics of setting up a profile on Linkedin, Twitter & Facebook. It also covers information on how to find contacts, networking, groups, fan pages and risk management. Basic blogging principles are also covered. Suitable for beginners or intermediate levels of online engagement.
*Blogging Basics/ Blogging Basics for Real Estate Professionals Time 2 hours
This class is approved by the State of Michigan for Continuing Education for Real Estate Professionals. Course Credit Hours: 2. Course ID# L1061. Instructor ID# 355. The course covers the basics of blogging and includes discussion of prohibited practices including but not limited to discrimination, violations of Fair Housing, copyright violations. Participants will be exposed to a variety of blogging options and introduced to social media platforms.
Approved for 2 hours of Continuing Education for Real Estate Professionals in the State of Michigan. L1061. Sponsor ID#355
*Blogging Ethics/Blogging Ethics for Real Estate Professionals Time: 2 hours
This class is approved by the State of Michigan for Continuing Education for Real Estate Professionals. Course Credit Hours: 2. Course ID# L1062. Instructor ID# 355.
This class is often offered in conjunction with Blogging Basics and is designed to be taught in tandem. The course contains information about blogging best practices, blogging topics and posts as well as detailed discussion on ethics including, copyright, risk management, errors and omissions insurance liability, policy manuals, Fair Housing, advertising guidelines and Code of Ethics for Real Estate Professionals.
Approved for 2 hours of Continuing Education for Real Estate Professionals in the State of Michigan. L1061. Sponsor ID#355
Customized Personal Coaching Sessions Time: 1-2 hours
Customized Personal Coaching is available on a wide variety of topics. Contact: laudu@grar.com or 616-791-0511 for further inquiry.
*All information is subject to change without notice. Please contact Lola Audu at laudu@grar.com or 616-791-0511 to book a speaking engagement or training session.
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to join Linda Zizos and Andy Johnston of the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce on the radio program, “Business Matters” (WJRW AM 1340). The lively exchange focused on upcoming Chamber University class sessions. Chamber University is an innovative programming series sponsored by Huntington Bank and offered through the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce to provide its members with timely information and education about a variety of issues including, marketing, management, communications, leadership skills and diversity.
My segment highlighted the seminar which I will be leading on Thursday, July 29th, 2010, “Social Media Marketing For Business Professionals”. This two hour presentation will provide insights into how to create a Social Media strategic plan and ways to leverage these tools to increase client loyalty, build and grow your network through Relationship Marketing effectively monitor and manage risk. In addition, we will also focus discussion on the three most important platforms for business engagment.
You are invited to participate! The seminar will take place at the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce corporate office and will start at 10:00 a.m. – Noon.
You may register for this class and other Chamber University Sessions by clicking this link.
Chamber University ~
Session#: 108 – Social Media Marketing For Business Professionals
Presenter: Lola Audu, Blogging Seminars
Date/Time: Thursday, July 29, 10:00 a.m. – Noon
Build your social media strategy, learn the do’s and don’ts of blogging, how to monitor your online presence and reputation as well as which web 2.0 tools (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc.) are most effective for your business.
For more information regarding these classes contact Bridget Meyers at 616.771.0342
GET YOUR BLOG ON WHILE YOU EARN CON ED CREDIT! – June 16
Get some Continuing Education Credit under your belt from one of GRAR’s top experts in the field with our third and final installment of Social Media Summer Camp!
Blogging Seminars - Instructor Lola Audu
Lola Audu, a renown blogger in the real estate world, will lead this 4-hour/4-credit course on Blogging Basics & Blogging Ethics for Real Estate Professionals at GRAR. Learn how to blog and market your skills in a Web 2.0 World and effectively engage today’s “connected” consumer, all while writing responsibly, protecting your online content and avoiding legal landmines.
Wednesday, June 16, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Good for 4 standard Con Ed credits
Registration:
GRAR Members $50 (Click here to register) or call 616-940-8200 (Sarah)
Non-Members $65 (Click here to register)
Blogging Basics (L0161) and Blogging Ethics (L1062) Instructor Code: 355
The State of Michigan has approved TWO NEW COURSES ON BLOGGING & WEB 2.0 TECHNOLOGY for Continuing Education Credit for Real Estate Professionals! These ground-breaking courses are designed to give real estate professionals the vital information they will need to participate responsibly in a Web 2.0 Connected environment.
Technology has transformed many essential elements of the real estate process. Today, new and experienced agents find that they need to understand the dyanmics of the online community or risk being marginalized.
This coursework will not only provide a comprehensive overview of Web 2.0 in today’s marketplace but will also touch on important topics that have significant legal implications for professionals who engage in online transactions.
Course ID# L355-1061 Blogging Basics for Real Estate Professionals
Course ID# L355-1062 Blogging Ethics for Real Estate Professionals
Sponsor ID# 355 Audu Real Estate
*PLEASE NOTE: to obtain State Continuing Education credit, participants must attend the entire session. Students arriving more than 15 minutes after the start of the class will not receive credit. A 15 minute make-up session will be available at the end of the second class. Please be sure to bring your Driver’s license and State ID/Pocket Card for Identification. Registration is not confirmed until payment is received. Please e-mail laudu@grar.com or call 616-791-0511 with any questions.
Coursework topics include:
*Blogging & Marketing Your Skills in A Web 2.0 Connected World
*Connecting with the Online Consumer
*Keeping Your Blog out of Legal Trouble
*Protecting your Content
*Ethical Issues including Fair Housing & Discrimination
Light Refreshments will be Served
Both Courses are approved for 2 hours each of Continuing Education Credit for a total of 4 hours!
Registration is required. Walk-Ins will be seated as space permits. Don’t miss this Great Opportunity to learn more about how to move your business Forward with technology through this Practical Continuing Education Course Offering!
If the noise level is an indicator of conversational buzz, then 2008 was certainly the year in which the conversation online moved into the mainstream of public consciousness.
This was due, in no small part, to the effective use of social media in the presidential campaign. No one captured the essential core of this technology as skillfully as Obama’s team did through their use of social media to raise awareness and campaign funds. In addition, the news media integrated social media sites, bloggers and iReporters into their broadcast. Everyone was talking to anyone…
In 2008, the main event was the conversation. Twitter took off with incredible speed, breaking records for increased traffic. For many, the conversation was the end game. It didn’t matter if anyone was listening or responding.
It was all about being on the move…finding the next new social media network, creating as many profiles as possible and then clicking the cursor to explore the next thing. The result of this dizzying flight of activity was near exhaustion in some quarters as many strove to keep up with blogs, comments and syndicated feeds.
One of the most curious phenomenons observed during this frenzy was the numerous people who were banned from sites like Twitter for ’strange activity’. Sometimes, a visit to the profile would indicate a huge number of individuals who had been ’friended’ by the now banned member. I wonder if a new kind of social dysfunction is developing in which a compulsive need to collect ‘friends’ will soon garner a psychiatric label? 
As business professionals enter into social media platforms in droves in 2009, the easiest mistake to make will be in thinking that this is just about communicating a message rather than developing Relationships. It’s not that the numbers will not be important. They will be!
But what’s hidden in the numbers will be even more critical. The true gold core will be the level of connectivity which is embedded within the numbers; the touch points which serve to expand the level of interaction beyond the simple one dimensional format of a profile page.
Success in the future will depend on the power of influence and the ability to move followers and friends to action. This only happens when there is a relationship!
Relationships are much harder to nurture than simple conversations. Relationships are fueled by a willingness to listen and understand. They also demand humility to appreciate what others bring to the table and the ability to respond in a fashion that it engaging and interactive. Relationships can increase risk, vulnerability and emotional exposure. And most of all relationships require an investment of TIME.
Many who entered the social media world in earnest in 2009 have discovered that blogging and social media networking are not a ‘get rich quick schemes’ in which the numbers of followers alone garner results. Many will drop away because of the boredom that eventually results when no one is responding.
But those who persist in the painstaking work of building relationships will become immersed in an experience which will prove to be transforming. I’m already seeing it happen. In some ways, this journey from the shallow shoals of conversation to the depths of relationships may offer the best hope for revitalizing an industry which has lost its mooring of influence and is floundering to discover how to become relevant once more.
Copyright 2008 Audu Real Estate All Rights Reserved
Related Blog Posts…
How to Use Twitter For Business…excellent tips!
Lola Audu has been involved in formal teaching and training for almost 20 years. In addition to coaching and mentoring real estate agents, she has also mentored many young adults and been involved in writing and teaching a variety of courses which relate to professional and spiritual development.
Lola’s teaching style is expressive and enlightening. She invites everyone to engage in thinking “outside the box”. Using humor and storytelling as well as practical wisdom, she “connects the dots” in ways that you may not have considered before.
Lola grew up in West Africa, in the cities of Lagos, and Jos. These two locales were about as different as any two places on the earth. The contrast of the steamy, chaotic, messy commerce driven city of Lagos where her family resided was a 180 degree opposite to the small educational community with quaint little homes, dormitories and scenic gardens of her boarding school experience in the small village of Miango, Nigeria.
The juxtaposition of these two environments were critical in shaping a manner of thinking and relating which incorporates and finds meaning in elements which are seemingly contradictory. A comment frequently articulated after individuals experience a teaching or training session is: “I’d never thought of it that way!”
For the past 16 years, Lola has built a successful entrepreneurial real estate practice in the West Michigan area. During one of the most challenging periods the real estate industry has ever witnessed, Lola has chosen to branch out to explore new ways to help her clients gain a better understanding of the changes that are transforming our world. In October 2009, she was elected by Broker members of the Grand Rapids Association of Realtors® to serve in the role of President-Elect. During her tenure as Association President in 2011, programming and services have expanded to incorporate a variety of training sessions including new media and emerging technologies. Lola was recently elected for a two year term to the position of Michigan Association of REALTORS Director for Congressional District 3.
Lola Audu is the author of two real estate certified continuing education courses in the areas of Blogging and Blogging Ethics. These courses have been certified by the State of Michigan. K1061 & K1062) In addition, Lola is a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and a graduate of the Graduate Institute of Real Estate (GRI)
Partial List of Clients & Presentations:
*Ann Arbor Area Board of REALTORS
*Clare Gladwin Board of REALTORS
*Lansing Association of REALTORS – RE Barcamp
*Grand Rapids Association of REALTORS
*Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce – Chamber University
*Western Michigan Chapter Women’s Council of REALTORS
*E-Management Consultants – Webinar/Training
*Rotary Club of Kentwood, Michigan
To contact Lola Audu for a Speaking or Teaching Engagement:
e-mail: info@auduhomes.com
telephone: 616-791-0511