Standing Out is as Easy as 1, 2, 3

It's the question most real estate professionals ask: “How can I stand out above my competition?”

Believe it or not, grabbing the attention of potential clients is not difficult and will not cost you thousands of dollars. Buyers and sellers today are sharp, savvy and technologically advanced, so you've got to speak their language. You can do that through your Web site, on your Facebook business page and in video.

Your Web Site

Many times, your Web site is the first impression that a client has of you:

• Is your Web site content relevant and current?
• Have you checked for spelling errors and broken links?
• In general, is your site appealing?
• Does it make the visitor want to return?
• Is there enough information on it to make them want to remain on your site longer than 15-20 seconds?
• Is it easy to navigate? Will visitors find what they're looking for quickly?

Your Business Facebook Page

So many people will tell you that they're not very good on the computer, but nine out of 10 times, they will still have a Facebook account! To stay within the Facebook guidelines, you're not allowed to conduct business or do anything "commercial" on a personal profile page. You must set up a business or fan page to promote your office and/or business. How you do that is important in standing out from your competition:

• Does your business page have a "Welcome" tab that new visitors will see first when they arrive?
• Does your Welcome page include your message, a video and a way to reach you?
• Are you taking full advantage of the entire amount of space you have (600 by 200 pixels) for your custom business profile picture?
• Are you making regular (2-3 times per day) posts to your Wall?
• Are you checking the page often for questions/comments posted by others? Are you responding to them?

Using Video

We live in an impersonal world. Because of e-mail, voicemail and text messages, people no longer have to interact personally with others. That's exactly why you need to use video in your business. It brings a much-needed personal element to your potential clients and current customers.

Remember, don't get intimated by the thought of recording a video:

• Keep it short and simple. There's no need to record a 10-minute video to get your message across.
• Speak from the heart and look into the camera.
• If you're camera-shy, you can still have a great video using still photos, background music and voice-over.

Make the decision now to take a hard look at your Web site, your Facebook activity and using video in your business for the New Year. You can't expect to have different results without trying something new! Standing out from crowd can be as easy as 1, 2, 3, and starting with these three steps will have you well on your way.

 Ann Brown is a professional virtual assistant and president of virtualadminsplus.com. She specializes in real estate support and social networking and can be reached at 800-320-5159 or via e-mail at ann@virtualadminsplus.com. Check out Ann's new Fan Page design service by visiting www.fanpagecustomdesigns.com. Get $25 off any service by putting in coupon code "WCR" at checkout.