I recently met an amazing speaker named Craig Zablocki who was extremely spontaneous onstage. He read the crowd well and rolled with their responses naturally. And being a lifelong learner you know I had to pick his brain! So after his presentation I asked him if he could give me some tips as I’m always looking to raise my game. He of course said sure…little did I know he was looking for some social media marketing help. So we decided to meet after our event and trade knowledge!

After an hour of coaching him on social media strategy….Craig shared some suggestions to help me become a more spontaneous speaker.  And the end of our meeting we decided to give each other a checklist of actions. Actions each of us could take to dive in to the skills we wanted and needed to learn. And trust me…his list for me was far worse than mine!  He suggested actions like (1) wear a plastic boogger while shopping at Nordstrom and (2) the next time I fly (which was this last weekend) I should get my entire row to sing a nursery rhyme with me. (By the way…I used the intercom to accomplish that action! Thanks @VirginAmerica)

Clearly these are things outside of my normal comfort zone. But that was the point. To Craig, sending a tweet with a shortlink sounded like something you feed a bird. But in that moment both of us realized that in order to become more confident with the tools and concepts we wanted to learn…we had to practice using them.

So when I was asked by the Women’s Council of REALTORS – California Chapter to give a keynote sharing some technology trends for 2012 I couldn’t very well give them concepts without ACTIONS! The 12 I suggested are in my slides below! And here’s hoping you’ll take some ACTION with something that makes you uncomfortable today…but gives you a little more confidence each time you give it a try!

You’re clearly here because you care about your Facebook friends. You want to listen, learn from, help and contribute! I like you already! So brush up on your Facebook “best practices” and make these 5 resolutions to improve your Facebook engagement (if you haven’t already).

(1)   No more whining about the timeline…just accept it already. We all know Facebook makes changes, so get used to them.  HOW we share will always evolve…but WHAT we share is specific to who we are. It’s time to take responsibility for the communication tool we find so helpful…and so fun!

(2)   Stop sharing images with words on them…especially when they’ve been shared 14 other times in your network already. Instead, use the status bar and text, or your own photos to illustrate your thoughts, comical ideas, or motivational phrases.

(3)   Don’t encourage bad behavior. If you don’t like how someone continually asks for “likes” then don’t like the post already. If you think its lame when people ask really cheesy questions…then don’t eat the brie. But remember you are on Facebook to be social, right?! So own your interactions…and engage in a way that feels comfortable to you.

(4)   Stop overposting!!! You know who you are. And we are tired of your 15 posts a day. It’s annoying…if we want to see you that much we’ll call you and meet for coffee. Blocking and unfriending happens.

(5)   Be original. Be who you are…nothing more, nothing less.  Share what you are truly passionate about when it comes to work, to family, to kids, to life. Know that most of us enjoy a balance of posts that reflect your interests and yes, your professional life too. BUT rather than offering up self-serving quotations from Brainy Smurf….really…I mean, REALLY…think about how you can help others in the New Year.  And stop trying to make everyone happy…you can’t. Focus on your niche expertise.

MyTechOpinion: Pause before you post. (I did, really.) But once you commit…be ready to ROCK it!

This real estate agent is in a situation that is very common. In her average day, she uses a Windows PC, an Apple laptop, an iPhone and an iPad. Working with so many different platforms is creating a real challenge.

She has tried several cloud based solutions, like Google Docs, but they all have fallen short. Mainly because she needs to edit Excel spreadsheets from any of her devices.

The Solution

We have run into similar problems with the operations of Agent Evolution. Actually multiplied as we not have different platforms, but also multiple people working with files.

Thank goodness for Dropbox.

By storing all of our business files in a Dropbox folder, everything is in the cloud. Securely stored with access to past versions. Plus, we have the ability to share files with other Dropbox users (great for teams).

Add a file to your Windows PC and it will sync with the Dropbox folder on your Apple laptop. No effort needed. It has literally made thumbdrives obsolete for us.

What About Mobile?

Although Dropbox has apps for iPhone, iPad, Droid and Blackberry, they don’t allow for editing of files. You can view files and upload new files, but that is it.

Another piece is needed to provide file editing from a smartphone or tablet. That piece is DocsToGo Premium.

With the DocsToGo Premium app on an iPhone/iPad, Word, Excel and Powerpoint files can be edited directly from Dropbox. Changes are saved back to the original files in your Dropbox.

DocsToGo Premium and Dropbox have reinvented mobile productivity.

MyTechOpinion

Cloud computing is changing how business is done. With easy access to all of your important files, catching up on work can mean 10 minutes with your iPhone in line at Starbucks.

Spend $9.99 a month to get 50GB of storage from Dropbox. That should be plenty of room to move all of your business files to the cloud.

Cough up another $16.99 to add the DocsToGo Premium app to your iPhone or iPad. It is a costly app, but worth every penny.

You are now a mobile rockstar.

I’m sure you already have favorite websites you visit on a regular basis, so be sure to bookmark them in your browser, homepage, rss reader, twitter list, Google+ Sparks, etc. (Whatever format works best for you and can keep you organized.)

Alright, ready to learn more about resources that can help you easily create and share content on the Web, I thought so….

Don’t miss all 8 videos (and steps) for Developing a Content Marketing Plan!

[VIDEO] Developing a Content Marketing Plan: Step 1- Strategize

[VIDEO] Developing a Content Marketing Plan: Step 2 – Brainstorm

And since I know you’re ready for more, let’s expand upon your expertise into other areas you’re passionate about. It’s time for step 2…it’s time to “brainstorm”.

Be sure to check out all 8 videos (or 8 steps) for “Developing YOUR Content Marketing Plan”! Missed video #1? No worries, watch Developing Your Content Marketing Plan: Step 1 – Strategize now!

Let’s start with step 1, which is to “strategize”….or pinpoint what you have to offer (aka your expertise), as well as how to provide that expertise in an interesting and useful way to your potential clients.

Don’t miss all 8 videos (or 8 steps) for “Developing YOUR Content Marketing Plan”!

But it seems like every time I get booked to speak at an event (lately), I’m inevitably asked to “work a little bit of iPad” into my presentation. Back to sexy and shiny again, which is fine to a point. But if you’ve seen me speak you know I focus more on substance, less on tools.

That’s not to say I don’t love my tools (iPhone, iPad, MacBook Air, etc). But they will evolve…which means I must always be ready to adapt. And I must always be ready to learn new ways to share my expertise with those who need it and want it.

No, I don’t have a tool strategy

Which brings me to why I don’t have a tool strategy (social strategy, content strategy, distribution strategy….yes, yes, and yes). But no tool strategy…I rock more of a tool mantra. A little reminder I can recite to myself when a take on a new tool. Mine goes like this, “I promise not to drop you in the toilet or leave you in a limo.” True stories.

In all seriousness though, it IS important to keep in mind why you selected your current tools. Do they improve communication with your sphere? Do they improve your productivity? If the answer is yes to both, then you’ve selected wisely. If not, then it’s time to upgrade or reassess.

Another reason your shiny new tool may be working against you is because it is just that…a tool (with clearly no purpose).

It’s ALL in the application

A tool becomes an integral element in your business when it fulfills a purpose. With the iPad, there are many ways it can enhance the transaction process and day to day real estate related activities. But the question I’m asked more often than not, is how to effectively use the iPad for a listing presentation.

And perhaps some of you would enjoy my tips on formatting and features in Power Point or Keynote. But rather than get lost in minor details, let’s focus on what you have to offer (to your potential client). Moreover, could you enhance what you already share in your presentation with a new resource? I bet you could…you overachiever!

To YOU, bringing your iPad to the appointment is not enough. YOU actually want to demonstrate your expertise in a valuable way with your iPad. YOU understand that your iPad is a teaching aid…giving you the power to become a trusted advisor by showing what you know.

And one of the best ways to support your expertise is with data, specifically listing information, comparables, charts and reports. Fortunately, I know one resource that provides all that along with 147 million property records, the Realtors Property Resource or “RPR”. Yes, I’m closely affiliated with their Director of Marketing and Social Media. That aside, those of you with access to RPR know exactly how amazing the information, graphs, saved searches, heat maps, etc. are!

If RPR is not in your area, get involved and make that happen. If it is in your area, you have no excuse…not to be using this valuable information in your next listing presentation.

The RPR reports are extremely detailed giving you the ability to highlight key indicators and trends with your clients. More importantly, you can use the information to support your expertise and better position yourself as a trusted advisor. FYI- All RPR reports can be emailed in PDF format and opened on the iPad using GoodReader, PerfectReader and iBooks. Check out @ReggieRPR’s how-to video for more details.

MyTechOpinion

Sexy and shiny may get your clients to the table, but it’s demonstrating your expertise that sustains their appetite. So go ahead, grab a free iPad (or just buy one at the Apple Store)…but use it with purpose!

We know this because you made AgentPress not only a top seller among real estate themes, but among all themes available to WordPress users.

Brian Gardner, Founder of StudioPress and creator of AgentPress says, “It’s been a top seller in the StudioPress gallery for the last 18 months”.

We also know that you were ready for some changes, and so AgentPress has evolved. The new version launches today and our Agent Evolution team is proud to have had the opportunity to collaborate again with Brian on this latest release.

GREATER FUNCTIONALITY

The most notable difference from the first version to the new AgentPress is with how listing management is integrated.  Listings are now entered as custom post types via the accompanied AgentPress Listings Plugin (which you can download for free). FYI- Integrating your listings via the plugin makes this data portable to future theme upgrades.  This new functionality makes blogging your listings easier and more systematized.

FLEXIBLE DESIGN

The AgentPress 2.0 design is sleek and extremely flexible. It comes in 5 colors, but of course you can always rock custom design and branding.  So whether you’re an exclusive listing agent highlighting beach front property with amazing photos and video, or a community focused blogger posting content on a regular basis…AgentPress is modular so you can add and remove what you need to fit your marketing strategy.

HOME PAGE IMAGE 1

HOME PAGE IMAGE 2

The above example showcases just one version of the new layout. You decide what you want to feature: listings, communities, blog articles, etc. Isn’t it about time your website was designed with features and content that meet your business goals, and deliver value to your clients? We think so.

In fact, Chad Johnson, President and COO of Agent Evolution says, “The move to AgentPress 2.0 is all about flexibility. The homepage layout is flexible enough to allow major changes without touching a line of code. And the listing plugin makes it easier for new features to be added with a one-click upgrade.”

Another benefit of  the AgentPress theme is that it’s built on the Genesis Framework. So it’s now possible to have a website that is lightweight and search engine optimized without bulky plugins slowing your load times.

WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE

If you’re a do-it-yourself, check the the AgentPress tutorials provided by Brian. But if you’re in the have-it-done camp, give us a shout and we’d be happy to consult with you on your website goals.

Introducing Social WordPress Plug-In

Social is a new WordPress Plugin that’s bringing comments back! Social is designed to aggregate the conversation happening on your blog posts with the conversation happening in networks like Twitter and Facebook. Not only that, but it brings new meaning to the hub and spoke approach to social media marketing. Let’s take a look at how social works.

A little background to the Social Plug-In setup

Social is compatible with both single author and multi-author blogs. At the time of setup each author will visit their profile and link up their Facebook and Twitter accounts. Then similarly, visit the Settings area of Social and add your Facebook and Twitter account there too. You’ll also be asked for a Twitter Consumer key, which is really simple to setup. For that, go here and login with your Twitter account and complete the application details and agree to the terms. Twitter then will return OAuth settings; in those settings you’ll now have the consumer key.

While in settings, you can also build a standard message to be shared to Twitter and Facebook using the following tokens:

• {url}: Includes your post permalink
• {title}: Includes the post title
• {content}: Includes the post content
• {date}: Includes the post date
• {author}: Includes the post author name

Now that Social is setup, how does it work?

At the time of post creation you can set the “social broadcasting” rules—allowing you to turn on or off the automatic Facebook post or Tweet.

Once your newly created content has been published, Social will aggregate new comments via Twitter or Facebook automatically using built in cron job. You’ll see the newly found content is nicely integrated with your WordPress comments. See all comments in aggregate, or use the tabs to filter out comments, Tweets, Facebook mentions, and even pingbacks. If the published post has not received replies via Twitter and Facebook the continued aggregation for that post will stop.

MyTechOpinion

I’ve seen many different comment plug-ins come on the scene over the years. Some completely take over the native comments feature in WordPress and you loose control as a result. Social is different, you stay in control of your comments and get the added benefit of integrating the conversation of your content from other networks. I appreciate the clean layout and ability to filter out the channel that’s most interesting to you. Also really like the Twitter hover cards that appear as you hover over a users Twitter handle.

I’m also happy to report that the plugin creators have stated they are actively developing the ability for Facebook pages to connect via the plugin not just Facebook profiles. I’m also eager to hear when they’ll integrate Google+ into the mix.

Here is an example of what we’re talking about:

Authorship Markup is essentially a way for Google to connect authors with the content they create and then show what I’m calling Visual Search Cues in the organic results.  This is all done by using HTML5 microformats such as the rel=”me” and rel=”author” tags to identify your content.

How do I setup Authorship Markup with my Blog?

The first thing you’ll need is a Google Profile, which is already a good thing to have based on the fact it’s highly search optimized and Google lets you link directly from the profile to your website, blog, external social profiles and more.

TIP: Make sure that your avatar is “a good, clear headshot of yourself” and does not include a logo.  If it does, Google has said that they will not show it in the results.

To establish authorship of your content, you’ll need to complete two steps:

(1) Link the blog to your Google Profile
(2) Link your Google Profile to your blog or blog’s author page

Step 1 – Linking your blog to your Google Profile

You may have noticed, with WordPress v3.2, on your individual post pages the link from your name to the author page includes the rel=”Author” parameter. That’s awesome, and exactly what we need. All you’ll need to do is add a link from the Author page on your blog, to your Google profile. The link should be in this format:

<a href=”[profile_url]?rel=author”>Google+</a>.

Replace [profile_url] with your actual Google Profile URL, which will look similar to this: http://plus.google.com/107461963711346948468. Also make sure not to delete the ?rel=author parameter

If you prefer to use a button, use the Google profile button generator

Step 2 – Linking your Google Profile to your blog’s Author page

Next you’ll need to create a link from your Google profile to your blog or blog’s author page. Do that by visiting your Google Profile and selecting “Edit Profile”. Next click on the “Links” area located on the right-side of the screen and include a link to your blogs homepage, or if you are writing on a multi-author blog you can link directly to your Author page. Now check the box that reads “This page is specifically about me.”

One last thing…Google also recommends that after you’ve completed these steps you should complete this form.

MyTechOpinion

I can see this feature being a huge hit with content creators and even searchers, especially as search and social seem to be converging.  We’ll be able to spot our favorite authors easier, and with that we’ll also be able to reach out and connect from a search results set. It’s still unclear how quickly newcomers will be added to this new index, but I would highly recommend getting things setup from your end.

Here’s to seeing you in the search results!

And I’m in prep mode and excited to be taking part. You see, Inman and MTO go WAY back. Well, back to 2005 when we started this blog. One of the great resources we found as new bloggers was Inman News, along with an extremely collaborative group of fellow bloggers.

I still remember the first Connect I attended and how I was inspired by finally meeting those I had been following online for months.  Yes, the halls of the Connect boast some of the greatest networking opportunities, but it’s the sessions bringing us a variety of talented leaders and speakers with innovative ideas and technologies that keep us coming back every year!

Of course we’ll be there in full effect this year! And by we, I mean  Reggie, Chad and I. All the action begins Monday, July 25th at the Data Summit,. Look for Reggie, he’ll be there with the RPR team.  I’ll be taking the stage as emcee at Agent Reboot on Tuesday and as moderator of the Internet Marketing Bootcamp on Wednesday. And our very own paparazzi, Chad, is the official photographer for the week’s events. So if you see a really tall, WordPress fanatic carrying a giant camera come your way…chances are, it’s Chad. So, stop and say hi, pose for a photo or just look natural!

Go ahead, take the Animoto time machine back to Connects past….

I’m excited to announce I’ll be sharing my WordPress expertise online via a series of upcoming classes…available to you, for free!

This will be a great opportunity if you’re ready for a Website with more freedom and functionality.  Or maybe you’ve been hearing how WordPress assists you in your overall marketing plan? Whatever the case, I’ll be providing a Webinar series is for those of you that are new to WordPress and ready to navigate this powerful platform.

Each Webinar will take place on a Wednesday at 11am PDT. The first 30 minutes will be a presentation given by yours truly, with an extra 15 minute segment from 11:30-11:45 dedicated to you and your WP questions. In fact, Chad Johnson (Co-Founder & COO – Agent Evolution) will be joining me during this time to provide his technical expertise.

So go ahead, register now for one or all of the upcoming classes! It’s time to get your blog on!

July 6 – 11am Pacific: WordPress for Real Estate 101: Why WordPress?

Learn why real estate professionals are choosing WordPress for their professional Website, but also as a marketing command center. Understand the differences between both WordPress platforms, how to get started and where to turn for help!

July 20 – 11am Pacific: WordPress for Real Estate 102: Developing YOUR Content Strategy

Every real estate professional possesses a unique combination of knowledge, expertise and interests. So isn’t it about time your real estate Website reflect that combination?!  Learn how to differentiate yourself online by creating relevant content (aka: blog posts) that positions you as a trusted advisor, generating you more business!

August 10 – 11am Pacific: WordPress for Real Estate 103: Post & Promote

Learn how to post your articles and videos on your WordPress site, as well as how to promote your relevant content via social media and traditional communication channels. Get a step by step guide to optimize your sharing via Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, YouTube, email, and even print!

Looking to get started with your own WordPress site? Contact the Agent Evolution team! We can help!

Of course it’s a wonderful thing to improve user experience on your site. But it shouldn’t come at price…which is often a bloated blog with a slow load time. Nobody wants that! So, whether you’re new to WordPress or looking to optimize site performance I’ve narrowed my list of favorite plugins down to the must-haves and organized them into 5 categories. Take a look…

(1) IDX Home Search:

Make it easy for your users to search for and find real estate in your local market. Diverse Solutions and IDXBroker are as good as it gets! Both offer easy home search integration, but Diverse takes it a step further with their IDXPress Plugin which literally puts the MLS on your blog!

(2) Lead Gen Forms:

So whatcha, whatcha, whatcha want, whatcha want!? Whether you’re offering a CMA, other market data, a newsletter or just yourself via contact info…make sure your visitors can get what they want. Use Gravity Forms, Pop Up Domination, or the MailChimp List Subscribe Form to create the perfect lead generation opportunity on your site!

(3) Market Data:

If you’re creating neighborhood pages or want to become a regular source of market trend data consider adding: Altos Research or Simple Real Estate Pack.This type of content is an extremely valuable for helping consumers digest market trends in their local area. It’s also a great way to supplement other written or video content you create.

(4) Site Performance:

What good is a beautiful site with robust content and features if you can’t access it! So be sure you’re backing up your site regularly (should anything every happen) with Backup Buddy and ensure your site has a faster load time with W3 Total Cache.

(5) Social Integration:

Not only do share controls help you promote and track your own content, but you’re also providing that important functionality to your site visitors. Give them the power to tell others about a great resource they know….you! Consider adding share controls with purpose. Send content to the obvious places with Facebook Likes and Twitter Shares. You may also want to try out Google’s new +1 button. And don’t be afraid to go oldschool with a “Print this Post ” type of feature. Some of us still enjoy printing for reference or sharing with a friend. To create your own mashup of share controls, check out the options available from Jetpack.

I should also mention that smart WP developers (aka Chad Johnson & Dave Bonds) can add share controls like the Facebook Share & Like buttons, and even Google’s +1 by coding them directly into the template.

Chad Johnson (COO, Agent Evolution) says, “This provides the same functionality with less overhead than a plugin.”

And Dave Bonds (Director of Web Design, Agent Evolution) adds, “We do it that way because you can’t always control where the plugin will put the button, so we make it easy by grouping them all together.”

MyTechOpinion:

Clearly you don’t need all of the mentioned plugins. You might find some work better than others depending on your WordPress theme, which is why I ALWAYS recommend the Genesis Framework w/ the AgentPress Theme. So take a look at the current state of your site and pick one category from above that you could improve on! And just do it!

And if you’d rather get to the point than watch me dance in yet another video, read on.

So what’s my take on the “ROI in Social Media”?

First, let me remind us of the obvious. Social media channels like Facebook, Twitter and the lot, are little or no cost to you at all.

Yes, they take time and effort…but doesn’t EVERY good marketing strategy?!

And it’s true…time is money. And many will say that social media takes too much time. Well, not if you’re using it in an effective manner. In fact, social media can enhance what you’re already doing with your marketing by driving consumers back to you (your info, your expertise, your knowledge, your website).

In terms of measuring your efforts:

Start with goals and objectives, make a plan, block your time and give yourself tasks to complete, and use the RIGHT tools to measure what you do.

What do you measure:

It could be numbers (like followers, friends, & likes) but I’m not always a fan of numbers alone.  It could be the level of engagement taking place, and it can also be leads you receive via the various channels you’re participating in.

What can be difficult to measure:

New relationships being facilitated and maintained, and the level of trust being established with your targets.  And sometimes it’s difficult to know EXACTLY what you did to make the phone ring…or emails, tweets, and FB messages roll in…but they do…and they will.

What do I do:

I think about what I want to accomplish? Then, tie my goals and objectives to specific actions…and see what happens.

MyTechOpinion:

I’ll tell you this much…”you get what you give“. So, start giving…your expertise, your knowledge, your thoughts, and your insights.  Success won’t happen overnight…but I KNOW you’ll be surprised by what comes back to you. I am…EVERY single day!

Clearly the Girl Scouts, being the savvy salesgirls they are, embarked on a new distribution strategy for their delectables this year! My little neighbor not only informed me I could purchase cookies on the spot, but also introduced me to their new iPhone app in case I needed to locate more in the near future. She even gave me her card that included a link to her troop’s Website and email newsletter!  Now I can get all the news and tips I need to suffice all my cookie cravings!

Go Girl Scouts! They get it! They recognized the need to update their distribution strategy to better meet the needs of their targets. So I ask you…when was the last time you updated your distribution strategy?!

If you are carefully crafting your marketing message and uniquely relevant content, you should be placing that same effort into how you share the message and content with your network.  Blindly blanketed your networks with the same postings is not only annoying, but completely ineffective.

When you post an article to your own Website, your goal should be to utilize channels like Facebook, Twitter or email to drive your targets back to the cookies (I mean the source of the content). When you have something delicious to share that folks want and you consistently tease them (in an informative fashion) you are positioning yourself as the source of the cookies. If I want more cookies…I KNOW where to go to get more!

But this strategy can fail quickly from 2 major mis-steps posting in our favorite networks…(1) treating every network exactly the same AND (2) the set it and forget it mentality.

Depending upon the communication channels you participate in, posting or sharing your relevant content will involve different nuances that shouldn’t be taken for granted.

Don’t Treat Facebook Like it’s Twitter, & Vice Versa

When you post your blog article to Facebook, be sure to include the link back to your site (which will usually pull in the image and description associated with the post). Then add your own commentary…giving us a reason to want to click the link and read more. Ask a question, share an important aspect of the article or one suggestion…but never recap the entire article or say, “check this out, or click here for more info”.  FYI: saying “check this out” as your commentary is about as exciting as when someone comments on your post with “thanks for sharing”.

When you post your blog article to Twitter using the title can be simple and effective, but don’t forget to add a short URL directing folks back to your site. If you plan to re-post that article during different times of the day or during the week, I suggest mixing it up. Tweet an enticing quote from your article or highlight one specific tip but allude to more.

Don’t Set It & Forget It

Just because you have a distribution strategy doesn’t mean you’re off the hook when it comes to responding. Whether you post to Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or send via email…be sure you have the proper notifications set so that you can get back to those who engage with your content.  That is the goal after all….to provide your expertise to those who need it and want it. And if those targeted folks are engaging with your expertise don’t drop the ball by missing opportunities to answer questions, provide additional assistance or take the online engagement…offline!

MyTechOpinion

Take a cue from the Girl Scouts! Modify your distribution strategy if you know you could be delivering delicious cookies to your targets in a more effective manner.

If you don’t have a distribution strategy, it’s time you did.  And if you need help establishing your own content management hub online, talk to us! Agent Evolution can ROCK you a WordPress site or Facebook Page to better market your real estate business, expertise and listings online.

Brian is the Founder of StudioPress, Creator of the Genesis Framework, Partner in Copyblogger Media, and fellow Starbucks addict. He’s also been a mentor and colleague to Reggie, Chad and I over the years.  Suffice it to say, there is much admiration for the design, clean code and functionality that he brings to WordPress.  In addition, Brian has developed the #1 real estate specific theme, some of you may already be familiar with, AgentPress.

I’ll be picking Brian’s brain on the benefits of using WordPress for your real estate business. I’ll also be focusing on design elements, content and features that make for (as I always say) a ROCKIN’ blog! So you won’t want to miss a minute, scratch that, a second of this powerful session. Brian will only be making a special appearance in Chicago!

Get all the details and the conference schedule for Agent Reboot Chicago.  FYI- Sign up online and save 50%! Also, we’ll be tweeting up the night before Reboot (4/19)…so join us!

So here it goes! If you have a WordPress site (particular those of you on the Genesis platform) and a Facebook Page in need of some serious love (aka content)….I’d like to introduce you to fbPressPage, from Agent Evolution! This is a WordPress and Genesis Framework specific add-on that brings your site content into your Facebook Page as a tab.

As a Facebook Page Admin, you’re faced with the challenge of trying to provide content (listings, community, neighborhood, market data, etc) on your Facebook Page, or searching for the right app that will attempt to do it for you. fbPressPage gives you the ability to customize your Facebook Page Tab with your WordPress content and features…and you can do it right from the WordPress Admin.

What EXACTLY does fbPressPage do?

Skies the limit! But when it comes to showcasing your real estate and local market expertise you can add the following to your fbPressPage: (1) IDX home search, (2) featured listings, (3) city or neighborhood specific content, (4) school info and scores, (5) market trend data, (6) contact forms, (7) recent blog posts, etc.

Let’s see how this looks in Facebook! Check out the “Real Estate” tab for facebook.com/TriValley365 in the gallery below. This tab highlights 5 cities in the Tri-Valley region, which also happen to be city specific pages created within WordPress. Notice the tab offers home search powered by Diverse Solutions. The Simple Real Estate Pack (also a plugin) provides school data from Education.com, as well as market trend graphs from Trulia.

What’s the benefit of fbPressPage?

fbPressPage utilizes the functionality of your WordPress site to better optimize your Facebook Tabs. So the valuable features and content you have on your WP site can be widgetized into an individual tab that loads right into your Facebook Page.

If you have IDX home search on your site, with fbPressPage, you now have that functionality inside Facebook. View featured listings and search for homes in particular markets. Got neighborhood pages or market stats on your site, make them twice as useful. Add a contact form or other calls to action. Or maybe you’re a content creator? Feature your blog posts along with improved sharing via Facebook and Twitter.

Another key benefit of using fbPressPage is that it can fangate your Facebook Page content. So when someone lands on your Facebook Page the content on your custom tab will be semi-visible (grayed out). A pop-up box will appear asking users to “Like” your page in order to gain access to your custom content and features. <coming in version 1.1> And if you’re an early adopter, don’t worry…we can add it in for you with the new release!

fbPressPage can also clean up your Facebook Page clutter. Too many inefficient apps can distract your audience and make your brand and messaging unclear. Rock your own content, simplify your calls to action and make it easy for your connections to get the info they’re looking for.

Learn more about fbPressPage

This is a premium WordPress add-on. A site license can be purchased for a one-time set-up fee of $199. Visit fbPressPage.com to learn more or make a request!

Prerequisites: You need to have a site built with WordPress.org and the Genesis Framework. Not on Genesis? We can build or move your site to Genesis, as well as hook you up with fbPressPage for Facebook.

MyTechOpinion

Now clearly I’m a fan of fbPressPage for the reasons mentioned above.  But simply put,  it’s just one more reason to ROCK WordPress and Facebook…a powerful marketing combination!

It’s all good…every blogger (aka “Content Creator”) has glared at the computer monitor trying to recall a post idea only to allow yourself to be distracted by the dog, the kids, the glass of wine. Becoming a content creator is tough (at first), so here are a few tips that may make the process of writing your next community-focused post much easier.

Create a Blog Topic List

First, if you don’t already have a blog topic list now’s the time to start one. This is a list of topics you are passionate about and that your audience can benefit from. And when it comes to writing hyperlocal content your list could include:

• Arts (theatre, gallery, performance)
• Business (newly opened, changed locations, bargains, specials)
• Charity (fundraisers, causes, events)
• Dance (events, lessons, instructors)
• Dog Fun (parks, trails, grooming, stores)
• Educational (school scores, events,
• Entertainment (kids, families, date night)
• Exhibit (art, wine, cars, etc)
• Family Fun (best activities & restaurants)
• Farmers Market (locations, produce, unique finds)
• Fresh Produce (what’s in season, recipes)
• Gardening (native planting, nurseries, tips)
• Gift Ideas (holidays, stores, tips, homemade)
• History (stories, points of interest, landmarks)
• Movies (new release, reviews)
• Museum (hours, exhibits, experience)
• Music (new release, reviews, shows)
• Parks (descriptions, maps, trails, dog friendly, kid friendly)
• People (clients, residents, business owners, volunteers, advisors)
• Real Estate (your listings, neighborhood spotlight, new building, laws affecting)
• Recreation (activities, suggestions)
• Restaurants (reviews, favorites, suggestions)
• Science (events, ideas)
• Seasonal (fun found in your area: winter, spring, summer, fall)
• Special Notices (new laws, meetings, chamber of commerce)
• Sports (events, clubs, gyms, races, games, tips)
• Transportation (options, schedules, changes)
• Uniqueness (What’s special about where you live & work?)

In order to write good posts that truly hit home with your audience, you need to clearly pinpoint WHO it is you’re trying to reach (demographic & geographic criteria). If you’re focused on first time buyers and young families…think like them. What info do they ask you for, how do they spend their time, what concerns them, etc.  Also, don’t be afraid to narrow the gap…or widen it! If there are 12 agents in your market already writing about your city, consider getting uber-focused on a particular neighborhood(s) or expand your emphasis to a region (i.e. Silicon Valley). But whatever you decide…carve that niche and stay consistent!

Anatomy of a GOOD Post

Alright, you’ve decided on the topic for your post…let’s say it’s an upcoming fundraiser held by the local high school.  Here’s what you should include:

MUST HAVE:

1. Post title (include location or topic)
2. Topic details (when is the event, where is it, why should I check it out)
3. Keep it short (200 words, no more than 300)
4. Link to original details (Website, Facebook Page, etc)
5. Include an image with your post (photo of location or topic)

WHEN POSSIBLE:

1. Provide a personal experience or story related to what you share (been there, done that?)
2. Interview someone involved (event chair, business owner, volunteer, etc.) & include the video in your post
3. Facilitate connecting (provide Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, other social channels for topic being shared)

Getting the word out!

Once you’ve posted your hyperlocal article on your blog…it’s time to get the word out! Do any or all of the following:

1. Post your article as an update on Facebook. Use the link feature to pull in the article image and description. Include commentary to frame your update with a reason for reading your article. Don’t tell us what your post is about, ask us if we’ve heard of the topic or share a related tip that sparks our interest.
2. Tweet your blog post title with a short (& trackable) URL back to your site.
3. If you’re using WordPress (you’re extremely smart) you can add the WordPress app to your Linkedin profile which will aggregate your most recent WP blog posts on your professional profile.
4. Share your post via email newsletter with your sphere list.
5. Create a print version of your article and use it as a targeted farm piece.
6. Turn on your Web cam and talk about this great event or interview someone involved, upload to YouTube (and share elsewhere).

What are you waiting for?

You’ve got ideas, you know what to include in your post, and you’ve got skillz for promoting your hyperlocal content….so, what are you waiting for? There’s no better time to position yourself as the Trusted Advisor, the Super Agent….the AUTHORITY in your local market area!

Last week I started playing around with HootSuite’s new Custom Social Media Reporting module; and I was pleasantly surprised by it’s flexibility. The report builder includes over 30 individual report modules; allowing you pick the metrics you’re interested in tracking. Then once I had a finished product, sharing the report is a snap.

So what’s this going to cost me?

The HootSuite Pro Plan runs $5.99 a month and includes the ability to generate 1 custom report of your choice. (Note: the Ow.ly Click Summary Report is free). When you sign up, you’ll get the first 30-days free, and you can easily downgrade your account anytime during that period and you’ll never be changed. It’s worth noting that you’re credit for a report will not be used until you actually click “Create Report”. Also you can edit and modify your report at anytime, and that will not result in an additional cost. With the Pro account you’ll end up with 50 points redeemable in the reporting module.

Building your first HootSuite Social Media Report

From your HootSuite dashboard, click the “Analytics” link on the left-hand side of the screen. Now select “Custom Analytics” and you’ll see the options available to you. Notice the tab is divided into reports owned by you, reports shared with you, and reports still in draft mode.

By clicking the button titled “Create New Report” you’ll now have the option to choose from one of their prebuilt templates as a starting place. (Note: you can easily customize the report in a later step.) The HootSuite templates include: (1) Proposal Report, (2) Ow.ly Click Summery, (3) Google analytics, or even (4) Facebook Insights. For this example, I’ll use the start from scratch option.

As you begin to build your report, you’ll start by adding company logo and contact information. Next you’ll type a header description; something that describes the metrics to follow. Now you’ll start to add the modules you want to include. Each report module (except for Ow.ly) will use 5 points. Your Pro account will give you 50 points by default. If you need more points they can be purchased, but additional points are not as cheap as the first set.

Here are a few of the metrics we have available to us:

Email and Scheduling

Once the social media analytics report is set up, you can schedule daily, weekly, bi-weekly or monthly email updates. Having this information push out to you is extremely helpful, and will keep real estate partners up-to-date on all ongoing marketing efforts.

Don’t like your report, change it!

You can make tweaks to your report at anytime by removing modules; the points you spent will be immediately returned to be used on different modules. This could be helpful when you’re tracking the results of a unique marketing campaign or event.

MyTechOpinion

I really like the flexibility they’re introducing into their reporting module. Although I would like my initial 50 points (from the Pro Plan) to stretch a little further.. I didn’t like that the next jump up was to spend $50 dollars / month. I felt like the Google Analytics report was a waste of my credits, especially given the official Google Analytics reporting module will let me make an unlimited number of reports for free. That being said, I do like the ability to create my own custom report from scratch, and gather metrics from multiple social media platforms in one report.

If your actively using social media to market your real estate business, you should be measuring your results. HootSuite Pro is certainly worth checking out.  Besides, HootSuite has tons of other features and applications you should be aware of.

Make sure you let me know what you think of the new HootSuite Custom Reporting Module! Here are a few related resources:

That’s all changed with CardMunch from LinkedIn! This powerful iPhone app has quickly become one of my favorites. Its business benefit is huge, and right now you can download the app for free. (Android and Blackberry Users: CardMunch says they have a version for you coming soon.)

Enough already, what does CardMunch do?

CardMunch makes digitizing business cards efficient and email follow up a snap. Here’s how it works: use CardMunch to take a photo of any business card directly from the CardMunch iPhone app. Seconds later an image of the card is uploaded to CardMunch servers where it’s transcribed in real-time and then reviewed for accuracy by real people. Even hand-written text on the card is picked up and transcribed correctly. Once CardMunch has created the contact; it’s sent back to your iPhone. The whole process—start to finish—only takes a few minutes.

CardMunch can deliver a push notification to acknowledge the digitized business card has been successfully added back to your phone. After a quick review of the contact record, you can easily add the the new record to your iPhone contact database. (Even set this up to happen automatically once you trust the accuracy of CardMunch.) It’s also worth noting that the scanned business card image is added to the contact record as their photo for easy viewing later. Also for peace of mind, your scanned database is backed up via the CardMunch website.

CardMunch takes it further

Interestingly enough, I would have been thrilled to use CardMunch if that’s all it did. But they’ve built-in a few more amazingly powerful tools. If we were all extremely organized and had a little extra time, we would appreciate sending our newly added contact an email follow up. That’s exactly what CardMunch helps us execute. By visiting the “My Settings” area of your app, you can setup an email template that can be used to follow up with newly added contacts. Even forward your contact information as a vCard on the email template allowing your contact to easily add you to their database.

Also take your follow up a step further by sending your contact a “quick connect” LinkedIn request directly from the app.

MyTechopinion

After using this tool a lot over the past few days, I can honestly say that CardMunch is amazing but I can’t see it staying free forever. It’s extremely beneficial for real estate professionals who collect cards regularly. So next time you wrap up an open house, Broker’s Tour or get back from a conference with a stack of business cards take a few moments to spread-out the cards you’ve collected and quickly snap-off a photo of each. What you’ll get in return is the ability to proactively follow up with your contacts and save time in the process. Get started by heading over to the App Store . Please report back; I would love to hear what you think!