Networking Mistakes to Avoid as a Real Estate Agent

Don’t be that person. I love connecting with people on LinkedIn, but some of these messages? Yikes. Let’s address a few common networking mistakes I see all too often… ❌ “Hi. Can I pick your brain?” Translation: “Can you give me free consulting without context?” ✅ Instead: Be specific. “I’m exploring optimization and have a question about [specific topic]. Would you be open to a quick chat?” ❌ “Can you help me break into [industry]?” Translation: “Please do my career planning for me.” ✅ Instead: Show effort. “I’ve been studying [skill/tool], and I’m stuck on [problem]. What do you recommend I focus on next?” ❌ “Hey, I’d love to collaborate.” Translation: “I want something, but I won’t tell you what.” ✅ Instead: Pitch with purpose. “I see you’re working on [project]. I have experience with [specific skill]. Here’s how I can help.” Networking is not about throwing a line into the void and hoping someone does the work for you. It’s about showing genuine interest, doing your homework, and respecting the other person’s time. Want to stand out in someone’s inbox? 💡 Be clear. 💡 Be concise. 💡 Show you’ve already taken the first step. The best connections come from effort, not copy-pasting the same vague message. Let’s do better, one DM at a time. #GetHired2025

I wouldn’t call myself a networking expert. BUT I’ve landed my last 8 clients because of “networking.” Here’s what’s worked for me 👇 A disclaimer before I start: “successful” networking hinges on being as invested in other people‘s success as you’re in your own. It’s NEVER a matter of quantity (“send 20 connection requests a day!”), and always a matter of connecting with like-minded people. 1. Be genuinely nice and helpful — proactively. Someone landed a role at a company you’ve admired or a product you’ve thought is cool? Reach out and congratulate them. Go beyond LinkedIn’s recommend one-liner and add a personal note. Someone’s struggling with a task you could do in your sleep? For example, setting up Monday automations. Send them a voice note with instructions or screenshots. 2. Show up on both sides — people who you can help and people who can help you. It’s not “networking” if you’re only reaching out to people who have something to offer you. Connect with others in your industry, people who have your role in a completely different industry, and people who want to be where you are. 3. Listen before you talk. Listen actively, intently, and empathetically. Seek to understand before you comment or ask for something. Always always ask “how can I support you in your goals?” Give people an opportunity to tell you — unfiltered — what they need from you. 3 “Don’ts” which you…just don’t do pls. It’s gross. 1. Don’t bait and switch: it’s the worst. People don’t hate cold pitches as much as they hate this. With a cold pitch, people might ghost you. But bait and switch and they’ll mentally block you forever. 2. Don’t get emotional in business conversations. I once recieved a follow up where the person went on and on about how they’d stayed up at night waiting for my reply. It was an unsolicited cold pitch. I don’t even remember seeing the email, I was probably too busy. They went on to call me some rather rude names and I … blocked them. Point is, they burnt a bridge for no reason. 3. Don’t fake it till you make it. Don’t exaggerate your credentials. Even if the conversation is successful, you’ll never be able to form a real relationship. It’ll always be superficial. What do you think?

Want a referral? Don't be transactional! This is one of the biggest networking mistakes I see. If the only time you’re reaching out to people is when you need something, you’re doing it wrong. Being transactional in your approach doesn’t build trust, it pushes people away. You might get ghosted, ignored, or worse, leave a bad impression that lasts. Networking isn’t about what others can do for you; it’s about building genuine relationships that benefit both sides. But 9/10 times, YOU have to make the first offer. Think about it—why would someone help you out if the only time they hear from you is when you’re asking for something? People help people they like and trust. Trust takes time and effort to build. So, instead of reaching out only when you need something, establish a relationship and offer value first. Engage with their work, share insights, or simply be a supportive connection. When you focus on giving, you’ll find that people are much more willing to help you when you need it. Networking isn’t a short-term transaction—it’s a long game. Play it smart, and you’ll see better results. (Sorry for the EXTREME closeup - we're slowly honing our video game...) 🪖