Un-Social Networking

By:  Larry Cragun

There is a lot of talk and type about social networking. There are a lot of business models looking to monetize the concept. Cool.

What about the un-social networking? Is there a way to monetize that? There must be. Why do I assume such a thing?

It exists is why.

I approach this real estate blogging adventure with a clear vision of a few things. For example, I know I am a little fish in a big pond.  I know that some read me and continue, and some read me and don’t come back.

I know I like my ideas. I know others won’t and if I am good, some will. I know I can build my real estate practice doing what I am doing. It brings in plenty of business. If it does more than that, great. I know I can teach others to do what I am doing.

I know I wasn’t on the Inman top blogger panel. I know I wasn’t a hero at their show. I know I loved the show anyway and got my money’s worth. Kathleen was there and did too. Someone I think important said I should have been on one of the panels. I am not so sure of that. I liked the compliment though.

I know I hosted The Carnival of Real Estate Monday. I know I liked it. I know some who didn’t. I know I didn’t do it for 100% approval. I hope some enjoyed it. If not, OK, I tried.

What I don’t get and want to address is the un-social networking that I see spewing and growing. I propose you take a look at reality. Your little blog can never match the traffic of Googles, eBay, or the like. If you feel all puffed up about how good you are, go get a price from the buyers. Home.com’s parent is buying. Give them a call if you want fair market value.

I see three ways of behaving. 1- Be a leader or follow the practice of making nice.

2- Do your own thing and let others do the same.

3- Be puffed up, join or build a gang of allies that go bully others around. Set the standard of the obviously needed and untapped un-social networking concept.

I like the first two options, either works for me. How about you? Which camp are you in?

Thanks Larry.