Q:  “Denise, do you really think I should sign up for a Zillow agent profile? If so, what should I include? Any advice for creating a good profile?”

A: Agents should be getting their name out there wherever they can and having a good profile is a wonderful way to get your name out there. BUT there is one very important thing you have to remember when creating a profile: Edit… edit… edit!

I can’t tell you how many profiles I read that have grammar and spelling mistakes. This can turn off even the most motivated buyer or seller. If they feel that a profile is sloppy, what does that say about the agent’s ability to handle the details of buying or selling their most valuable asset? Profiles say so much about you and you have to make sure that you edit them thoroughly before posting.   

Good profiles include something personal, professional accomplishments, and most importantly they articulate why someone should contact you. And remember “WIIFM” (What’s In It For Me?)! Make sure that when you are sharing your professional accomplishments that you clearly articulate how a potential client might benefit from your experience or knowledge.

And please, no matter where your profiles live, make sure to include your photo. Just this morning I was looking through an office roster where several of the profiles were missing photos. People want to connect with an individual and not having a photo on your profile is a barrier for someone who may be about to pick up the phone.

I encourage each and every one of you to keep a list of where you have a profile and make sure it is updated at least every six months. When you have a list it is easy to make the same updates across the board at once.