Social media is an integral part of our daily lives, both at home and in the workplace. Virtually every field has been positively affected by the usability and visibility that a substantial social media presence provides, and it has made it easier than ever for businesses of all sizes to succeed. The mortgage industry is no exception, and during a time when Americans are still recovering from the devastating real estate, mortgage, and banking crises that occurred in 2007 and 2008, social media is helping an entire field to get back on its collective feet.

1)Why does social media matter?

In today’s world, a great deal of business connections are made and strengthened online, rather than through face-to-face communication. Whether you’re choosing to establish a blog, send out a weekly newsletter informing clients of updates, building a website, or creating a presence on a site such as Facebook, you’re not only raising visibility, you’re making it simpler to keep in touch. Social media allows you to share relevant information with those who truly want it, without being invasive.

2)What do you gain by investing in social media?

Not only does social media help you gain new clients, announce your continued presence in the industry, and reinforce relationships with existing clients, it is something that saves you some time in the long run. Rather than sending out important information via e-mail, fielding constant telephone calls, or scheduling face-to-face meetings that aren’t totally necessary, today’s social media outlets allow you to share information with a larger group of people in less time than ever before.

The benefits of social media are two-fold: your clients feel involved with your business and well-informed on issues that affect them, and you actually spend less time engaging in communication with your client base, allowing you to focus on other projects.

3)Where to begin in the world of social media?

Virtually every company today has some sort of web presence, even if it’s only a simple site designed to let the world know the business is out there. If you have a website, it’s a fairly simple matter to add a blog, which can be frequently updated. In addition, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn are all easy to use, and great ways to stay connected while increasing visibility. If you’re feeling particularly ambitious, you might even record videos for YouTube!

The times are most definitely changing, and the average consumer is fast-paced, plugged-in, and accustomed to having a wealth of information at his or her fingertips. In order to conduct business in a way that makes you appear professional, knowledgeable, well-educated, and honest, it must also appear that you’re willing to share what you know freely and openly. A strong social media presence will not only impress potential clients and make you more attractive to those considering working with you in the future, it will help you retain the clients you already have. In an industry where the strongest survive, it may just be the advantage you need.

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Derek is an active real estate blogger. When he is not blogging, he enjoys being a real estate agent. The article above is for new jersey mortgage rates.