Nicholas “Nick” Statman on how to improve networking.
Property investing is a people-centered business. It involves building relationships and making connections. Most of the work property agents and investors get is not because of what they know, but because of who they know. Networking is a critical skill in the property investing industry, and it is both an art and a science.
Combining traditional networking methods with a few out of the box strategies will help you meet more people, find deals, and make more money. Consider these four things as you become more intentional about networking:
Start with your team
Some property agents work with a team, while others prefer to work independently. But even those who work on their own must rely on a team of experts to help them be successful. Networking starts with working with a trustworthy, professional, and reliable team of experts. This means knowing a master architect, solicitor,contractor, interior designer, landscaper and a surveyor that you can call when you begin working on a new project. Surrounding yourself with professionals across various industries is the first step in building connections.
Build Your Brand
While it is important to seek specific people out, it is also important to be easily found. In this modern age, this means building a brand that sets you apart from the rest. Invest in a professional website, order business cards, and spend time and money developing a brand that is easy to recognize. Spend time learning about SEO and different online marketing strategies that will make it easy for people to find you. Research the top apps that others in the industry are using. Research the apps that buyers and sellers are using to find property agents and make sure you’re there. Networking is equal parts finding other people and making it easy to be found.
Attend (and Host) Events
Networking events are a tried and tested method for meeting new people and expanding your reach. There are speed networking events, formal lunches and Q&As, informal happy hour events, and virtual masterminds. It is important to step out and try different events and even network in areas outside of your local community. If there aren’t networking events scheduled in your local area, host one! Reach out to other professionals to see what kind of networking event would be the most beneficial.
To meet new people and make more connections, you’ll have to step out of your comfort zone. If you’re naturally an introvert, networking events may be intimidating, but start small. Getting out there is one of the best ways to network. Remember that networking happens naturally too. Sometimes striking up a friendly conversation with a neighbour could lead to a business opportunity.
Reevaluate Your Social Media Platforms
Property agents and investors use social media to connect with people, find properties, and market their services. But if you look closely, you can use social media to network as well. Analyze your social media feeds to see who you’re already connected with. There might be old friends, coworkers, or classmates that you haven’t talked to in a while that could play a vital role in expanding your network. Start with the people you already know, that you’ve already built connections with, and branch out from there.
The Takeaway
Networking doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen by accident. It is the result of intentional communication and focus. It requires stepping out of your comfort zone and learning to be confident about who you are and what you have to offer. Networking is a strategic way to help yourself by helping others.
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