Professionals across all industries use social media to get their message out. Even though social media is popular with everyone, real estate agents are uniquely positioned to turn their social following into real business value. Social media savvy is one reason why Homesale Realty agents succeed.

Even if you don't "get" social media, you can still learn to use it like a pro by following a few basic principles. Once you see the amazing results you can achieve in lead generation and listing reach, you'll understand why spending some time every day cultivating relationships through social media is worthwhile.

Here's how to get off to a great start:

• Choose the Right Social Media Platform for You
  The "right" platform is where your audience is already present and active. Instagram is the most popular social media for browsing aspirational properties, while LinkedIn is ideal for those working in the commercial or luxury property markets.
  
  
• Include Photography in Every Post
  The biggest secret to "optimizing" your social media posts is also the simplest: Always include visual content. A quick photo can potentially increase the number of people who see, interact with, and share your posts. You may want to devote a day to creating visual content for all your posts in the following week.
  
  
• Where Possible, Use Video
  While a photograph alone is enough to stop scrolling thumbs, you need video if you want to impress the social media algorithm so it will show your post to more people. Start with a realistic goal—recording a video once a week, for example. Remember, videos of just 30 seconds can have just as much impact as longer pieces.
  
  
• Use Social Media Automation to the Utmost
  Various useful social media tools are available to help you spend less time scrolling your feed. With social media automation, you can write posts well in advance, and your software will automatically release them at times when your audience is most likely to be active.
  
  
• Respond to Your Social Media Comments at Least Daily
  Another useful reason for social media automation is that most automation suites keep you updated on post activity. While you usually shouldn't drop what you're doing to look at social media, promptly responding to your social media comments is one of the best ways to keep people invested in your content.
  
  
• Motivate Users to Visit Your Website
  Listings are crucial to your social media activity, of course, but that's really only one part of the equation. You should also aspire to get more people to visit and spend time on your website. How? Helpful, informative blogs that answer their questions (such as financing FAQs) are the most effective route. Publish at least weekly.
  
  
• Once On Your Website, Spark a Lasting Relationship
  Most people from your social media feed won't reach out directly to work with you. Instead, use your social media to deepen the relationship. Once your social posts get someone to your website, use valuable online content, like a neighborhood guide, to inspire them to sign up for your email list for long-term communication.
  
  
• Monitor Followers' Activity and Reach Out
  While most people won't be ready for a real estate agent, some are. As people interact with your content more and more, it'll be easier to catch on to these signals. When you notice someone actively looking for a new home, reach out via social media, and you might just end up with a new client.

Contact BHHS Homesale Realty to find out more or get started with our team.