Have you ever noticed that whenever you're in a room filled with people and you start asking them about their professions, so many people respond with, "I'm a real estate agent"? This has happened to me quite often.

So, I suppose my question would be: If I were a real estate agent, which I am considering, how would I want to present myself as an agent? I'm glad you asked. What are some of the things I could do to stand out?

First and foremost, you'd want to discover your own niche, not someone else's. You need to find a niche that truly resonates with you. A great way to discover this niche is through a self-assessment. What are your strengths? Your weaknesses? Your interests? Your passions? What's your knowledge level about neighborhood investment properties, working with investors, luxury home leasing, commercial properties, residential spaces, or vacation homes? These are some key points to consider when building a foundation as a real estate agent. You might also ask yourself whether you eventually want to become a broker. Analyzing markets, trends, and demographics can help you identify your niche. Often, your professional experiences can be a valuable asset and provide insight into potential niches. Personally, I used to own a day spa and hair salon, and my niche was celebrities and sports and entertainment figures. Building that brand early in my career allowed me to transition smoothly into real estate, knowing that sports and entertainment would remain my clients. Consider if you're drawn to a particular group of people—sometimes your calling remains consistent across different endeavors. Your past experiences and connections might play a significant role in shaping your future.

Be intentional about building your personal brand. Make sure it reflects your chosen niche, your personality, and, most importantly, your expertise.

Have a specific target in mind while branding yourself. Your branding should resonate with your chosen niche and the type of clients you want to attract to your database.

For me, the database is the heart of my business. It's where you invest a lot of time, ensuring accurate information and creating a network you take care of—because they'll reciprocate. I call this my VIP list. Throughout the year, I make sure to play a vital role in their lives and not just during the significant events, but even in their daily concerns. Remember, your database can become like family. Many of my clients today, I consider as close as family members. Also, for me, the cornerstone of success in real estate is the client. If you don't prioritize your clients, true success is hard to attain. In my eyes, success means exceeding your clients' expectations and meeting every one of their needs.

Create content that speaks directly to your target audience. Networking is paramount too—attend events where you'll meet people you aspire to serve and engage with. Networking with like-minded professionals can help you enhance your skills and learn from others' experiences. These settings provide an excellent platform to share challenges and learn how others have overcome similar obstacles. I find these environments particularly enriching, as they allow for sharing testimonials, building trust, and creating collaboration opportunities. Don't be afraid to open up; vulnerability often leads to discovering that others have faced similar struggles.

Delve deep by asking yourself how you want to portray yourself as a real estate agent and how you can ensure that every client you serve knows they're your top priority. Embarking on this new journey requires introspection, research, and a clear understanding of your skills and interests. Remember, finding your niche and owning it, while providing exceptional value to your clients, will position you as a trusted advisor for every person you interact with. There's a community awaiting your presence in the world, and I'm genuinely excited about your journey.