Offline Traffic Tips For Your Real Estate Blog, Part 6

Part of the Offline Traffic Tips For Your Real Estate Blog series.

It’s probably a good thing that the number one fear people have is of public speaking. Considering that it’s a killer tactic for building recognition, credibility, rapport, leads and, of course, traffic you should be happy that not many Realtors seize upon this.

Here are a few ways to really make this work for you…

The expert in the room

The cool thing about speaking is that it really sets you up as the expert. There you are in front of a group of people, all who came to listen to what you have to say. There’s some social proof involved, too, as they look around and see other folks who are viewing you as an expert. So, as far as building expert status goes, speaking is a winner.

What to say

More than just speaking, what’s more important is that you actually teach something. We all want to walk away with something of value if we’re going to sit and listen for a spell.

• Help folks understand that which they find mysterious or confusing
• Demonstrate how to solve a common problem
• Showcase things (process, trends, etc) they didn’t previously know

With that said, make sure you provide some sort of materials for your attendees to take. Obviously, make sure your web address is on them.

Where to go

No doubt your local library puts on workshops led by outside speakers. There are more than a couple associations, clubs, and groups in your area that get together. They’re looking for folks to come in and speak, too.

Heck, I know of a couple mortgage folks that teach a course at local colleges. How’s that look for credibility?

A very guerrilla approach

Now, here’s a slightly different approach that I know works…

Approach a local business such as a coffee or sandwich shop. Work it out with them (make sure they let you put up a flyer or other promo piece) to come in one afternoon a week or month and offer real estate advice in a one-on-one scenario. Each person gets with you for 5 minutes to discuss their real estate questions.

The coffee shop wins since all those folks will be in store waiting for their turn to speak with you. You win a long list of leads and potential clients.

Even more strategic is to adopt this approach near a large company office, say Intel. A good way to “infiltrate” a company who’s HR department might otherwise not work with you.

Can we speak about this?

You, expert, credible, in front of a willing audience ready to hop over to your blog for further info. So, you ready to do some speaking?