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Property Managers: Grow Your Business Without Spending a Small Fortune

Posted on 18. May, 2010 by Marc Courtenay in Business

Most of us want to expand our property management business. Very few can afford to do this extravagantly in this belt-tightening economy.

No need to be anxious though, because there are a number of inexpensive ways to grow your business without plopping out a wad of cash. I’ve learned from almost four decades of experience that little things mean a lot, and little steps can produce big results.

Networking and Getting Connected
It‘s not just what you know that counts these days. Just as vital is who you know and how well you know them. You can join a civic organization like Rotary or the Kiwanis Club, or you can direct your efforts towards a group that specializes in helpings businesses promote each other.

One such group happens to be the largest and oldest organization of its kind. BNI is the largest business networking organization in the world. They offer members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and most importantly, business referrals.

The founder, Dr. Ivan Misner, recently published a new book on this topic. Titled “Networking Like a Pro”, this book is a guide that reveals key networking techniques to help you turn your connections into effective connections.

You will learn how to reach quality prospects, leverage your contacts, motivate ongoing referrals, track your success, and much more! Many times we’re in need of some fresh ideas and a little extra encouragement. That is also what networking is all about.

Having breakfast once a week with key people in your community and sphere of influence can literally open doors and create productive introductions. You can do that alone, or you can create your own little group of self-promoters and encouragers.

One way to find an existing group is to use an online connectivity service like Meetup.com. This remarkable service allows you to find or start virtually any kind of networking circle of acquaintances and contacts with similar interests and goals.

Serving and Speaking
If you are so inclined, participate in your favorite charity. Offer to help with fund-raising, serve on their board, and meet with key leaders to find out what they need. Develop your reputation as someone who wants to help your community.

You can also place your name with the local speaker’s bureau. Call your chamber of commerce and offer to be a public speaker who presents interesting, relevant topics. Or sign up to speak at a local or regional residential property management association event.

Find ways to get in front of as many people as possible, hand out your card or your brochure, and let your light shine. Help others and ask for help. Do it for the joy of serving, and see why they say, “What goes around comes around.”

Related Posts
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Grow Your Property Management Business with New Investors
50 Interviews with Property Managers: 7 Lessons For Your Business (Feb. 24 Webinar)
How Property Managers Use Social Networking to Grow Their Business (Apr. 22 Webinar Recap)
Protect and Grow Your Owner-Client Relationships

Tags: business, networking