Networking in the Real Estate Industry

The relocation and real estate industry is all about networking and networks. Whether sending referrals to one another or sharing best practices, we don’t stand alone. Everything we do depends on our ability to trust our various partners in the industry to deliver what we can’t based on location, access, or skill set. And it is how we generate new sources of business.

We partner with companies for a reason. They backfill our deficiencies in a way that makes us look good and delivers what our various customers or partners need. Or it delivers business to us from sources we couldn’t get directly. It's hard to be all things to all people.

Your network may be a broker network or an affiliated network of providers, or it may consist of people who hold the same job in another company. No matter who they are, it is critical that we have confidence in their ability because it elevates our baseline.

Just because someone else has allowed them into a predetermined network doesn’t mean we must accept them without doing our own due diligence. Make sure you know your partners. Don’t take anyone else's word for it. I don’t care how many awards they have won; take a minute to review customer feedback and performance metrics. Awards sometimes only mean they know how to play the game.

17 Ways to Build a High-Performing Network

1. Actively network and promote your services to stay top of mind.

2. Network with those who work with entities that can offer recommendations.

3. Always connect your name, company, and market area in every marketing effort.

4. Identify people and companies that align with your values and engage with them.

5. Learn from successful individuals and adapt their strategies.

6. Expand beyond your brand’s network to explore new perspectives.

7. Challenge yourself to initiate conversations at events.

8. Offer mentorship to learn and grow from others.

9. Use networking for job opportunities and career advice.

10. Connect with others in leadership to share experiences and gain reassurance.

11. Boost confidence and communication skills through frequent interactions.

12. Never discount people who may connect you to opportunities.

13. Volunteer on committees to build trust and demonstrate work ethic.

14. Leverage networking for access to tools, resources, and training.

15. Surround yourself with positive and inspiring people.

16. Be a connector and facilitate valuable introductions.

17. Follow up consistently to maintain relationships and build trust.

Final Thoughts

Networking is a long-term investment. Stay consistent and proactive, and remember that the true value of networking comes from how many people you can help connect to others. As Simon Sinek once said:

“The true value of networking doesn't come from how many people we can meet but rather how many people we can introduce to others.”