People want to work with people, they don’t want to work with businesses. They want to connect with you as a person. With technology being more prevalent than ever nowadays though, social media is a great way to lead generate. But where to start? Read on to learn about lead generating without spending hard-earned money.

Start with the most popular social media platforms, like Facebook and Instagram, and use the 80/20 rule: 80% personal, 20% real estate. That might seem counterintuitive, but people want to know why you care about being a Realtor. It shows relatability and a different view of the ‘behind-the-scenes’ of you being a real estate agent.

People want to do business with people that are like them. Do things that make people want to talk with you so that you can engage with them. Respond back to continue the conversation; it makes them feel like someone cares about what they have to say and helps create a relationship. Join Facebook groups with people who are like you, like a fitness group or a networking group. It’s free advertising to be of service and connect with others just by doing the things that you love already.

Use a script on social media. Yes, you can use them on social media but only if it applies to what someone posted and is of value. Don’t post a script if it doesn’t apply to the question that someone asked. If someone flat out asks if anyone knows of a Realtor, you can let them know that you are in real estate…but you have to connect with them! Be congratulatory, welcoming, and/or excited for them depending on what their original questions were regarding. If you see a lot of the same questions over and over, like what are the most popular areas to purchase in nearby, create your own script based on your experience and post that. We love a good script, so create some that you can use to help streamline your time while making connections on social media.

Another great way to connect with people is by networking on posts. If you see a post recommending another agent, make a comment such as ‘Yes, that agent and I have worked together for many years and if you don’t choose them, choose me’. Promote them!! Get to know other agents, vet them, and then keep a running list of agents in surrounding areas that you’ve worked with so that when someone is looking, you have someone that you know, like, and trust to refer them to. You might even be able to get a referral fee out of it, you just never know. It’s free advertising!!

To be different, you have to do things that are different. Do things because you like to, not because you must convince yourself to do them. Partner with people who can share your posts for you, like a lender or title rep, so that it’s more fun and you can support each other in the process. Whatever you do, be sure to remain authentic and be consistent. If you don’t want to do a video, don’t do a video. Find things that work for you and that you do like to do and do that. Ask yourself what message you want to get out and how you want to be of value and start there.

Having boundaries for yourself is OK, and so is self-care. Relationships are not automated, and social media is never-ending so pick and choose when you want to do it. If you don’t post one day, that’s okay – your business will continue! Be purposeful with who you follow with people that you are in alignment with and you’ll be well on your way to generating leads without spending your hard-earned money!