Global Connect lands in the Big Apple April 6 and 7 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, bringing with it leaders in the industry from around the globe. Industry heads are sharing their secrets, new projects and best business practices.
Register now for Global Connect
I attended my first Inman real estate conference before I had my license to gain perspective, listen to the CEOs of the top firms and learn about new technology.
I chose my brokerage (based on listening to my CEO speak), met my fellow Inman Ambassador Nikki Beauchamp — who generously offered a wealth of knowledge — and set myself up with the latest apps to perform my job seamlessly wherever I go.
I was energized to begin my journey into the lucrative and ever-changing world of residential real estate. I asked top brokers their best tips on getting the most out of a conference.
Lois Kirschenbaum
Associate real estate broker, Daniel Gale Long Island, New York
“I attend many conferences including the AREAA [Asian Real Estate Association of America] National Conference for the past few years as well as the GNE [Global Networking Event].
“All of these conferences refresh your enthusiasm for the business. Being exposed to new products, technology and discussing how your fellow associates in the real estate world do business is fascinating. It helps you to keep a pulse on what is going on nationally and internationally.
“Sellers and buyers will benefit from the wealth of knowledge you will obtain. It also is a tremendous opportunity to develop personal and business relationships. In addition, attending these conferences with associates from your own firm brings everyone together.
Maureen Stapleton
Past president and Realtor of the Year by Aspen Board of Realtors, Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty
“When attending conferences I make a point to connect with brokers on a deeper level than just handing someone my business card. It’s so much nicer to share a meal or have a drink or coffee with a broker you don’t know.
“It takes effort, but you really get to know each other, share your business knowledge and hopefully, figure out how to work with each other in the future with referrals.
“Making two or three strong connections at a conference is my goal. I often reach out to brokers in advance and set up an appointment … the brokers I reach out to are those in a state where many Aspen homeowners live full time or like to visit.”
Kellee Buhler
Associate broker, Town Residential NYC
“My tip is to focus on quality and not necessarily quantity when attending networking events. I have never found collecting a bunch of cards very helpful. I may have a bunch of cards but no idea who anyone really was.
“So instead I focus on spending more time with a select group of people at each event investing time getting to know them and building the foundation of a long-term relationship.
“I also learn the ways I can help their business grow by connecting them to the people I know. If possible I look through the attendee list ahead of time and reach out to those people that I would like to meet — inviting them for coffee or drinks — and making sure I find them at the event.”
I’m looking forward to seeing everyone at Global Connect 2016 in NYC!
What are your best conference networking tips? Please share in the comments section below.
Rebecca Cavallaro is an associate broker Sotheby’s International Realty. Follow her on Instagram or on Twitter.