Net some new contacts at MAR events

If there’s one thing REALTORS® do better than any profession I’ve ever worked with, it’s network. The Michigan Association of REALTORS® hosts events all over the state to bring REALTORS® together and I marvel at our members. Everyone is so outgoing and ready to work together. There has to be an art to it. Right?.

To show the rookie REALTORS® out there how to form a tight-knit networking group of peers and increase sales, I’ve brought in some veteran business owners, outside of real estate, who survive on networking.

Going outside the real estate profession is a good way to get some fresh ideas.
Without further adieu, I’d like to introduce Greg Lootch, Mitch Jackson and Keebler Nixon. Why don’t we tell the rookies out there what business you’re in and how networking has helped you succeed.

First you, Greg.

“ Aye, Tim. I’m a fisherman, I am, and if I didn’t have me net I would starve.”

Do you like to meet other fishermen, maybe make a tight connection, verbal contract, that sort of thing?

“ Nay. I usually slip out in me dingy and fish at night. Night fishing is the best, Tim. Aye.”

But, you use a net and that’s why you’re here, right?

“ Aye. I brought it to show you.”

That explains the smell. Not quite what I had in mind. Maybe Mr. Jackson can shed some light on some networking techniques.

“ I like to run a pick and roll, straight out of the south side of Eaton Rapids, homey. I can use the pick if I want to drive to the basket, or, if the defense takes away the lane, I can always fade back for a three. Either way, baby, it’s twine time.”

Twine time?

“ I’ll tickle the net with the best jump shot in basketball. Stick on me too close, Butterball, and I’ll shatter the backboard with a dunk.”

Butterball? Who is Butterball?

“ It’s just an expression, dude. Chill out.”

Fine. So you’re a basketball player? Whatever. How about you, Mr. Nixon? Tell me you’re a businessperson who knows networking, please.

“ I am.”

Good! And what is it that you do?

“ I make nets.”

Great! What kind of nets do you make?

“ I made the nets that helped catch the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park. It was really a challenge. I was in the third Jeep. Did you see me? No? Anyway, I had to use a lot of netting and actually double-knot each of the different braids. I’m quite proud.”

Did you get the job by making friends with Steven Spielberg before the movie? Maybe met him at some sort of function, like a premiere event? I heard all the Hollywood types do business that way. Let’s hear about that.

“ No. His company called me and I came up with the net design.”

That’s not networking.

“ Aye, but I’d like to hear more about those nets. Would they catch bigger fish? I keep trying to use this little net to catch the big ones but they get away.”

“ Oh, I’m quite sure my double-knot system would hold a big fish. Unless you’re going after whales, it’ll hold.”

“ Aye, here’s my card. Call me and we can do business.”

“ Hey, Bro. Do you think you can make a net that will last longer than a week? I’m going through nets on my basket like tissue paper. They just don’t hold up to my three-point rainmaker. I’m just that good, baby.”

“ I don’t know about that, but I do know the double-knot system can withstand a great deal of stress. I’m sure a basketball wouldn’t even phase it.”

“ Great, Bro. Here’s my card, give me a call and we’ll talk.”

This is horrible. I’m so embarrassed. I thought you guys would show my readers how to network. Maybe give them a tip or two. Something. Anything. But you aren’t telling us anything.

“ Sorry, Mate. I have to go fishing. If ye come up with something, call me. I’d be interested in hearing yer thoughts, aye. Here’s me card. Sorry I couldn’t have been more help.”

“ Yeah, Butterball. Call me if you have an idea.”

Really, Mr. Jackson? Here’s my card. I’ll call you. I still don’t see why you call me Butterball.

“ And heres my card, Tim.”

Thanks, Mr. Nixon.

“ I could use someone like you on my next venture.”

Great. Here’s my card. I don’t need a net, but you never know. I’ll keep you in mind.

Well, sorry, rookie REALTORS®. I thought I could show you how easy it is to network, but I guess I got the wrong kind of guests. Get out to any of MAR’ events (you can find a calendar on our site at www.mirealtors.com) and you can watch the pros do it and probably pick up plenty of tips.