Do you hate it? Or, like me, do you LOVE it?!

I know. It's kind of "hip" these days to mean-mug it when you hear someone talking about social media, but I've gotta be honest . . . I love you guys and I enjoy almost all of it! I love seeing your life unfold and it makes my day to cheer you on! I actually do enjoy seeing your kids doing all the things at every stage of life. I like seeing what you're cooking or where you're eating out. Sometimes your spouse or significant other may post a photo of you, or say something, that makes me think in ways I never did! You inspire me with the things you say, the people you quote and the way you live. Often you make me laugh! Sometimes I cry. I pray whenever you post that you need it. Social media is the perfect party for people like me who are extroverted introverts. We can enjoy the party and then quietly move on when we need to recharge. I'm always watching REALTOR®'s business pages to see what's coming soon, and your wit and humor are the best things ever!

Now, on the flip side, I sometimes have to shut my eyes tight and keep scrolling because #whatever . . . but, there's no need to throw out the proverbial baby with the bathwater! Social media serves a purpose; you get to decide what your purpose is and use it to its full advantage in growing your business.

Think of it this way: you are at a party! It's virtual, but still a social gathering. Act appropriately. Stop being so emotional about a business tool and deal with it like the grownup you are. On social media, some people are inappropriate. They overshare, pitch fits and are generally too much but guess what? That happens everywhere. You can choose who you follow and what you see. YOU can choose how you're viewed in the public as a professional and as an interesting, local personality.

Think with me: where else can you find a captive audience to pitch your unique messages to for free? Even if you 'boost' a post on Facebook or run a Facebook ad to capture a wider or more specific audience, it is very inexpensive and easy. Shape your thoughts about it by shaping your messaging and restricting its use. That's about how disciplined I can become, right? It's not the fault of the platform if I fall down a rabbit-hole when I engage with social media. No one is forcing me to watch Facebook Reels or TikTok videos for hours. I don't have to follow negative people or worry about who's seeing my posts. The hard truth is all of that is within my control.

If you're not as engaged as you need to be to impact your business in a positive way, today is the day to get on track. Here are a few easy, practical steps you can take to grow your following and increase the flow of business through social media:

• Pick one platform and post content consistently. For most people, Facebook (or META) is the easiest place to start. Add one more platform when you're ready. I recommend Instagram or LinkedIn. Instagram is about photos and all topics are there; LinkedIn is all business. You'll see the differences immediately when you check them out.

Fun fact: Bellator has a company page and separate pages for each office on Facebook, as well as a company page on Instagram and LinkedIn. (If you haven't already, please be SURE to go follow these pages!) You can immediately find great content to "Like", "Comment" and "Share" from a trusted source! That's a win! Make sure you "Like" or "Follow" and ENGAGE with everything great that's being shared from your company. The company audience can grow your following and vice versa when you engage with those accounts.

• Never share a link without your comments! Even great content needs to be posted in your voice to encourage people to click and read.

• In every post, tag your business page. If someone shares it, they can choose not to include the original post. Tagging your business page in the body of the post means it will always have your contact info and whatever else you include. It's important. It's about more than just the legal requirements.

• Congratulate other life-giving agents when they post about a listing or a closing and "like" or "comment" ongoing – whether or not they're Bellator agents. Live with an open hand and a generous heart. You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain. Think about it. Be part of growing our real estate community in professionalism and in relationships.

• Include a call to action along with your contact info whenever you're sharing real estate related info. Here are some examples:
• "Call today to schedule your showing of 123 Sunset Lane! 251.554.8623."
• "Check out my website! It's updated and ready for you! www.ilovemyjob.homes."

• Mix it up! No one wants to follow you if all you post is real estate content. Include restaurants, family outings, inspirational materials and all sorts of interesting things. Is your pool beautiful? Are you looking at a great sunset? Are your flowers showing off? Is your grandchild adorable? Did something really funny happen at work? Share! Be interesting. People will follow if you're consistent. And remember, your Bellator Marketing Team is always on the job providing you with a wide variety of content. Every week you'll find lots and lots of links they've found and posted for you in YAPMO in the "What to Post" resource. You can copy and share this vetted information from our Marketing team straight to your business page.

As a trusted Real Estate Advisor, you ARE a public figure. Promote your business on social media. Show us the interesting person you are and the more-than-business life you lead.

We can't wait to connect with you there!