On Wednesday, August 28, we hosted an interactive “Finding Community in Real Estate” breakfast featuring discussion leaders Sarah Ware, Ware Realty Group, and Amy Wu, Keller Williams Success Realty.
We believe that building connections that foster growth is crucial for success in this industry! This YPN interactive breakfast served as a powerful reminder that in real estate, our greatest assets are often the connections we forge and the communities we build. By embracing new ideas, supporting one another and continuously pushing our boundaries, we create an environment where everyone can thrive.
Here are key takeaways from the breakfast and business tools we think you’ll enjoy.
Actionable Steps for Growing Your Community & Support Systems
When challenges arise (as they inevitably do), who do you turn to? The workshop explored this question, revealing a diverse range of go-to resources. From mentors and coaches to lenders and attorneys, successful professionals recognize the value of building a robust support system. One attendee suggested experimenting with asking questions of AI tools like ChatGPT. The takeaway? Don’t be afraid to leverage both traditional and cutting-edge resources to support yourself.
Participants also shared creative strategies for expanding their professional networks:
- Organize block parties or resource fairs in listing neighborhoods.
- Join local chambers of commerce and industry boards.
- Participate in fantasy football leagues (yes, really!).
- Volunteer within your community.
These ideas underscore the importance of thinking outside the box when it comes to relationship-building. Sometimes, the most unexpected connections lead to the greatest opportunities.
Real estate isn’t just about transactions – it’s about people. By cultivating supportive networks, we create environments where everyone can flourish.
Sarah’s Perspective: Embracing New Trends
Sarah shared her insights on staying relevant in the evolving real estate landscape. She noted the untapped potential in commercial real estate, especially when it comes to social media marketing. “I don’t see a lot of commercial brokers taking advantage of social media,” she observed. She highlighted a woman-owned team on the North Shore that effectively uses visual content to showcase their commercial listings, setting them apart in an industry that’s often slow to adopt new marketing strategies.
A strong social media presence is an essential way to announce yourself in a specific market or space and for others to find you and connect with you. Looking for other people in your market? Post about your experiences, expertise and work!
Recharging and Setting Boundaries
In an industry known for its demanding pace, self-care emerged as a critical practice. Attendees shared various techniques for recharging, from strict “no work on Sundays” policies to regular gym sessions and quarterly getaways.
One innovative approach? A $20 wooden box with a timer to lock away your phone, forcing much-needed digital detoxes. As real estate professionals, setting clear boundaries isn’t just nice – it’s necessary for long-term success and well-being.
Sarah shared her own recharging strategy: “I don’t like to work too many days on a consecutive basis. After six or seven days, I have to take a day off to recharge because I’m going and going and going.” She emphasized the importance of unplugging, turning off the phone and dedicating time to self-care activities like working out.
Embracing Discomfort for Growth
For the introverts in the room (and there were many!), networking events can feel daunting. But as one participant wisely noted, “Getting out of your comfort zone is part of why we’re here.”
Strategies for overcoming social anxiety included arriving early, having pre-prepared discovery questions and simply pushing yourself to “just do it” within those crucial first 15 seconds of an interaction.
Sarah, who identifies as an introvert, emphasized the value of striking up conversations at every event, especially the ones advertised as purely informational. She noted, “Sometimes people are sitting at a panel and you get so much from the panel, but you don’t realize what you get from the audience.” YPN hosted this breakfast format intentionally to allow the wealth of knowledge within the crowd to shine through! If you enjoy more interactive events, seek them out.
The Takeaways
As an association, we believe in the collective wisdom of all of our members, and we will continue to create space for dialogue and diverse experiences.
Continue to create “community” in your neighborhoods with potential and current clients, and don’t forget to cultivate communities among other real estate professionals. Your peers can be confidants, accountability partners, mentors, inspirations and possibly future collaborators!
In Sarah’s closing words, she highlighted the shared purpose that unites real estate professionals: “We all share a common goal as real estate professionals to service our clients and just to have a great day.”
So take that first step – reach out to a colleague, try a new networking approach or implement a self-care routine someone recommended. If you’re looking for welcoming spaces to connect with your peers, visit the association’s website to find the next professional event.
Real Estate Communities to Join
Groups & Networks
Through these groups & networks, you will find other real estate professionals with similar interests and goals. They are often led by volunteer committees which are also a great way to get involved with the association. Benefit: getting involved with these groups & networks doesn’t cost anything additional. It’s a benefit of your membership with the Association!
Committees & Work Groups
As members, your involvement in our committees, advisory groups and forums is a great way to use your voice to drive your local Association’s initiatives and connect with other volunteer leaders. Applications for Chicago committees re-open every spring & terms begin in October. Learn more.
Industry Partners
The Chicago Association of REALTORS® partners with the local chapters of other real estate associations, because we know that, together, our organizations enhance opportunities for business growth, knowledge-sharing, relationship-building, legislative advocacy and so much more. Membership in each organization is separate from your local, state or national association memberships.
