According to the 2009 REALTOR® Technology Survey1, 70% of real estate practitioners are using texting as a communication method for business. If you're not currently texting clients, you're letting an extremely effective messaging technique literally slip through your fingers.
If you are a texting real estate professional, be sure to follow these simple rules of netiquette:
1.
Do get permission. Before texting a client or colleague, be sure to ask if it's ok to text them. Not everyone has an unlimited text service. In cases where a person does not have a text service or has a limit on how many texts they can send and receive, they may not want you to communicate via text with them because it could rack up serious charges.
2.
Don't use slang. When texting clients and colleagues, don't fall into the habit of using casual acronyms like "OMG" or "JAS". Keep your communication professional to retain a professional image.
3.
Do respect privacy. Do not pass on sensitive and private information such as a credit card or social security numbers in a text. Use caution when sending texts with sensitive information because phone networks, compared to secured WiFi networks, are a much easier target for hackers.
4.
Don't yell. If your message is in all caps, it can be perceived as yelling. Be sure to turn your cap lock off to avoid sending the wrong message.
5.
Do call and email too. You don't want to lose that personal touch with your clients by overusing texting. Pick up the phone occasionally when it's more important to have a conversation. Send an email if your message is too lengthy for a text. Don't let your communication become too impersonal with "over" texting.
6.
Don't text and drive. For obvious safety reasons, pull over before sending text messages while on the road.
7.
Don't get distracted. When you're with clients and prospects, avoid getting distracted with your phone. If possible, do not read or send texts. If you're expecting an important message, let your client know in advance. If you're not expecting an important call or text, then turn off your ringtone and give your full attention to the meeting at hand.
8.
Don't assume texting is just for the younger generation. Nearly everyone carries a cell phone these days and you'd be surprised how many "older" consumers are signing up for text and data plans. Don't count out that senior citizen when it comes to texting. It may just be his communication method of choice.
9.
Do research mobile marketing services. There are a host of real estate mobile marketing services now available that take advantage of texting technology and make your job of marketing properties even easier. Here are just a few:
»
»
»
»
»
10.
Do use a QWERTY keyboard. For the sake of saving time, a QWERTY keyboard can make sending messages much speedier. If you're in the market for a new smartphone, strongly consider a QWERTY model.
Featured product: HP iPAQ 910 Business Messenger
•
QWERTY keyboard
•
Listen and reply to messages hands-free
•
Make calls and access the Internet2 around the world
•
Built-in Google maps and Multimodal GPS navigation3
•
Integrated 3 MP camera with 4X zoom
•
802.11b/g wireless networking2
•
Run business-class mobile applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
The 2009 REALTOR® Tech Survey highlights REALTORS®' use of technology. Key topics include social networking, technology sourcing, lead generation, relationship building, mapping, and security.
2.
A standard GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS/HSDPA, WiFi or other Bluetooth-enabled devices, separately purchased equipment, and a service contract with a wireless airtime provider may be required for applicable wireless communication. Wireless Internet access requires separately purchased Internet service contract. Check with service provider for availability and coverage in your area. Not all web content available. Wireless transmission speeds may vary based upon network capabilities and other conditions. Establishment and continuation of a wireless connection depends on network availability, provider support and signal strength.
3.
Purchase of additional maps and/or software may be required to enable some features or allow navigation in certain areas. Availability of maps is limited. Map coverage may vary and is not guaranteed.
Printable version
