Choose Your Words Carefully

Let's take a quick quiz...

Name the companies that use the following tag-lines.

1. The Real Thing
2. The King of Beers
3. Mmm mmm mmm mmm good
4. Good to the last drop

Pretty simple stuff, right?

Coke is the "real" thing. (After all, Coke was first on the scene in the cola world. So, you can either have the real cola, or an imitation, right?) Let's look at Budweiser. Long has it been known that Budweiser is the "king" of beers. (It doesn't get any better than being the king. The king is the top of the heap, the head honcho, the alpha dog. Why would you associate with something that isn't the best??) Campbell's soup is "mmmm mmmm" good. Maxwell House coffee really is "good to the last drop".

Recognize the pattern yet? Did you catch what was being said?

All of these tag lines have been used by these very successful companies for years. Not because they are excellent brand references that people have literally heard for years...although that is certainly true...but because they SELL! Not only do the help sell the product, they sell the brand.

How much more effective could your advertising be if you treated your tag line -- your branding slogan, if you will -- as a sales opportunity rather than a contest to see who can come up with the cutest catch-phrase??

You can immediately improve your own tag line and achieve better results from your advertising by simply changing the words you use to words that actually mean something.  For example, what's the more effective tag line....

1. Your (honest, hard-working, professional, friendly...feel free to insert any other adjectives here) real estate expert for life.

Or...

2. Working to deliver the best results for you. Always.

I can tell you from personal experience, if I had a dollar for every time I have seen the first one on a website, business card, flyer, postcard, etc, I could retire. It is probably one of the most over-used and, forgive me for saying so, weakest tag line an agent could use.(Hey, someone has to be honest with those of you that use some form of this line...)

There are a group of words that are used in real estate advertising that just simply don't deliver the punch that the agents thinks they deliver. Here is a list of words you should avoid:

FRIENDLY -- Of course your friendly. You work in a position that requires it. I have never met a single agent ever anywhere that doesn't possess the ability to at least fake his/her way through an appointment appearing to be friendly. Go to an appoint and be an ass and see how far that gets ya...

PROFESSIONAL -- Ummm...duh. I would hope so. Why would you waste valuable advertising space promoting something that the client is already expecting to exist merely by the fact that you hold the position that you do. McDonald's food is safe to eat. Fords will help you get from point A to point B. My service is professional. See the problem??

HONEST -- (See friendly and professional)

HARD-WORKING -- I have met very few agents in this industry that are not working hard. I have met a bunch that don't work very smart, but I think all of them work hard. Do you really want to be measured by how many more hours you will spend working for them versus how many hours your competition will put in? Or, would you rather be measured by how much more effective you are at selling homes?

Pretty much any word that you can use as an adjective about yourself falls into this category including knowledgeable, reliable, trustworthy (dear Lord, please don't use this one!!) etc...

Now, by the same token, there is a group of powerful words that can be used to deliver a better message about your ability and maintain the aspects of your ability that the client is already assuming exist within you. Those are:

RESULTS -- People are buying results when they hire you. It only makes sense to promote that fact in your tag line. You are hired to sell a home. That is a result that your client wanted. Bring that to the forefront so that other clients know you can deliver those results.

DELIVER -- Delivering something is hugely important. You are bringing them something they want. I order a pizza...I don't want to go get it. I want it brought to me. Bring me something I value and I will pay you for it. Do it well, and I will tell other people.

BEST -- Being the best at anything positive will bring you results. Be the best blogger in your area, you will get clients from it. Being the best at any aspect of your job gives the ability for you to leverage this aspect and you will get new clients coming to you because of it.

YOU -- If your advertising is a message to a potential new client, why talk about yourself?? Why not talk about what they want? Using the word 'you' implies that a specific focus on the individual client and will create a connection between you as the agent and them as your customer.

GUARANTEED -- The value of a guarantee is implied by the client, not you. Offering something that is guaranteed implies that you are true to your word; you can produce a desired result and are willing to back it up. Guarantees provide that same feeling of confidence in your clients by removing doubt and potential risk.

LARGEST -- It has long been thought that there is strength in numbers. The size of an organization has typically been thought as being the 'safest' choice merely based on the size. Remember, nothing draws a crowd like a crowd. So, whatever you can say about being the largest in your market space will help you. It doesn't have to be the largest brokerage. It could be the largest internet presence, the largest service network, etc.

There are certainly more words that fall into this group, but I think you get the hint. Your tag line isn't about a catchy slogan or a cutesy jingle. It is your very first attempt at selling your client that you are the best choice for them. In order for this to work effectively, you should be talking about what THEY want from you rather than what you want to be seen as in their eyes. Talk about what the client wants...not about patting yourself on the back for possessing those same qualities they automatically assume exist merely based on the fact that you hold the position that you hold. Therefore, choose your words carefully.

 

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112 commentsClint Miller • November 18 2009 08:27AM

Comments

BTW - Ya got me to come over from Twitter

I won't repeat my "tag line or elevator pitch" here, but I like it and others repeat it back to me. One day at one of my networking meetings the 15 people there surprised me and changed their tag line to sound like mine (for a joke) Isn't that the point? They remembered it, can repeat it and hopefully tell others. I feel like it's "sticky"

Great post - I'll be forwarding this to my office.

Posted by Dena Stevens ~ Associate Broker, Realtor,CSP, SFR (Colorado Western Real Estate) 8 months ago

whew, I was not offended.  Had me nervous over on twitter Clint.  marked for feature

Posted by Daniel J. Hunter, If I Can, I Will, Just Ask (REALTOR® with Prudential Tropical Realty New Port Richey, FL) 8 months ago

As always - a very candid, valid and rabid look at how we do what we do! You bring new meaning to "Talk to the Hand" which.. is obviously healing;-) Great read Clint

Posted by Brenda Ellis 8 months ago

You are brilliant, but you already knew I thought that about you.  It is true, most agents have been taught over the years to brag about their numbers to prove their worth and something got lost in relationship/ translations.  I say most people's mirrors are broken, when they look at themselves personally.  I think that can apply to looking at themselves professionally as well.  MWA!

Posted by Audrey June-Forshey, GRI, Gaithersburg, MD (RE/MAX Realty Group) 8 months ago

Dena -- Awesome!!! Very happy to hear that. :-) It sounds like you have a good one. ;-) Sticky is good!

Daniel -- Thank you so much, my friend!

Brell -- LOL @ "talk to the hand" line. :-) Glad you liked the post!

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Audrey -- Awww, thanks! :-) "...most people's mirrors are broken..." That is a great line!!! I will probably be using that in a future post, my dear!

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

On more than one occasion I have been called to list a home by Seller's who were bombarded with agents who said they were " Million Dollar Producers"

They called me saying only that they wanted someone who would work on the property feeling tha a million dollar producer would not have the time or inclination to pay attention to their home in the $300,000 range.

I have been a multi million dollar producer my entire career. Never liked the line.

 

Posted by Downtown Portland Real Estate Broker~Herb Hamilton (RE/MAX Preferred Inc. Realtors) 8 months ago

Herb -- Ahh, yes....the "million dollar producer". Ugh. ;-) Good choice to avoid that phrase.

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

And........when I was at our state convention I was in a class where the speaker recommened saying "Hi, I'm Dena and I'm a Realtor" keeping it clean and to the point. Thoughts?

Posted by Dena Stevens ~ Associate Broker, Realtor,CSP, SFR (Colorado Western Real Estate) 8 months ago

Dena -- I actually recommend that people use something a little more subtle than just throwing down like they are a plumber or something. One elevator speech I learned was this....

Question --- What do you do?

Answer -- You know that nervous, antsy feeling you get when it comes to buying or selling property? I make that go away. I'm a real estate agent.

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

I like that Clint. Might make a small change.

You know that sense of accomplishment and overwelming joy you felt when you knew that you were a home owner? I make that happen. I'm a real estate agent.

Same idea but does not bring up the negative feelings.

Posted by Downtown Portland Real Estate Broker~Herb Hamilton (RE/MAX Preferred Inc. Realtors) 8 months ago

Herb -- Excellent point! I like the change.

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Love this!  Again, sir...proving you are brilliant!

I too, dislike the "Million Dollar Producer" tags.  I have had clients tell me that they feel as if these "Million Dollar Producers" will not have time to take care of their needs.  Something to think about :)

Posted by Kristina Cusick (C. J. Brown Realtors) 8 months ago

Kristina -- Awww, Thank you! Much appreciated! Again, people should choose their words carefully. You an alienate people just based on the words you use...

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint - I love talking about marketing strategy, but I have a feeling you knew that already.  :-)

The trite, overused words that you talk about here remind me of an old post I wrote about restaurant service.  I can't stand hearing, "Hi, I'm _____ and I'll be taking care of you this evening."  Never have more scripted words been uttered in a service industry.  I strongly prefer, "Hi, how are you? I am ______ and I'm your server/waiter/waitress."  Even though it may sound bland, the other one sounds tired and untrue.

As for your list, I agree with almost everything other than using "best" (unless you back it up with numbers) or "largest" (because I think people these days are leaning more toward a more personal touch, and using that one may turn off a chunk of potential clients).  Just my humble opinion.

Posted by Jason Crouch, Broker - Austin Texas Real Estate (512-796-7653) (Austin Texas Homes, LLC) 8 months ago

Jason -- Yes, I knew that already. :-)

I agree with the overused, repetative speech that people often lull themselves into...makes me hoarse yelling at people in my office that do that...

With regards to your objections, I agree with your specific examples...and I do realize there are exceptions to every rule....as I mentioned, those are not the only words that can be used to convey that message. But, by the same token, "million dollar producer" turns people away even if it can be backed by the numbers. ;-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint,

Your two back to back examples were very compelling....it is something I need to give some thought to....might run a few examples by you....

Posted by LORI COFER ~ PULLMAN WA -- Realtor® ~ 509-330-0086 (Beasley Realty) 8 months ago

Ok Clint - Do you want to make up MY new tagline for me? I'll be your guinea pig? From your Northern Nevada REALTOR for life...(Gosh I feel lame now.) :-)

Posted by Christianne Gordon, REALTOR® e-PRO CDPE SFR Carson Valley Real Estate Specialist (Carson Valley Homes and Land - RE/MAX Realty Affiliates) 8 months ago

Clint,  Thanks for the reminder about key words for marketing.  I need to make sure I use the best key words in my tag lines!

Posted by Sybil Campbell REALTOR® ABR, SFR, SRES Your REALTOR® in Williamsburg (Long and Foster, REALTORS®) 8 months ago

Lori -- Thanks....I thought both of those would bring the point to the sharpest I could make it. ;-)  Id be happy to help, if you want...

Christianne -- LOL!! You are not lame...

Delivering you home in Northern Nevada since (insert year)??
Experience you can depend on. Always!
Powerful force...Proven results.
Northern Nevada's proven results REALTOR!

Any of those help a bit??

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Sybil -- Exactly! :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Wow! This is an excellent post and great advice and direction. In the last few months I have encountered the need to re-evaluate my publicity. For many years I was known as "THE Real Estate Investment Lender" and quite literally my foundation was ripped from under me. I need to know what I am so people will know why and when to come of me. You have challenged me and I must answer ...

Posted by Ken Cook, 678-439-8683 8 months ago

I really enjoyed reading this post. We have taken a lot of time thinking about our tag line and how we want to be perceived by our clients. "Million Dollar Producer" did not even come into consideration as it seems a little pretentious, "Agent for Life" we knew that would become automatic once we formed the relationship. We did not need to tell them that. It definitely takes some effort to market toward the consumer psyche!

Posted by Stephanie Reynolds (AgentsOfPossibility.com, REALTOR, GRI, ePro at CMI, Inc. ) 8 months ago

Ken -- Thank you so much! Very glad you liked it. And, it sounds like you have the ball rolling....follow up on it!

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Stephanie -- Thank you so much! It does take a bunch of effort...and you are right, the implications with "agent for life" is based on the connection you make AFTER you talk with them, not before! Good call!

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Terrific post. It is also important to know the difference between a slogan and a unique positioning statement which is what people like Michael Russer has been teaching for years. A slogan is something that is memorable, can be clever, and draws attention to you and it sticks. A UPS is saying to people what you are about. Ona slogan I use my name to tell people that they are my No. 1 "Pryority". On a UPS I tell them that I deliver traditional real estate values with the speed of technology. I want people to think that old school is ethics and honesty which is not out of style, but we want Realtors to respond quickly to our needs and that we use the tools to do that.

Posted by Joe Pryor.com REALTOR® Oklahoma Investment Properties (Redbud Realty) 8 months ago

Joe -- Thank you very much! And, I think you hit the proverbial nail directly on the spot that needs it. :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint:

Excellent fodder for my ongoing search for the tagline that "says it all."  Been working on this challenge for years.  Haven't hit it yet but I'm still on it.  Love your blog entries.

Posted by Kirsten Lindquist (Pacific Union International - Christie's Great Estates) 8 months ago

Kirsten -- I think it will be hard to find one that says it ALL...but, you might be able to find one that says MOST of it. ;-)

And, thank you for the compliment!! Very happy to hear that.

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint - I've never thought of the branding part this way.  I will definitely be doing some heavy thinking and changing - after all - gotta brand myself!

Posted by Linda Mayer 8 months ago

I am with Christianne Gordon on this... will be in line behind her.   I am going to rethink my tagline. 

Posted by Diane Williams (RE/MAX Realty Pros) 8 months ago

Linda -- Branding yourself is MOST important...That way, if you ever make a change, you can take your brand with you!

Diane -- Im glad you are going to do that...Id be happy to help if you want it. :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

I don't agree with largest... But that could be because we're the family of real estate and not the "biggest" and don't want to be either.  But those overused words... ugh!  I hate them in self and home marketing.

Oh, it's Maxwell House that's good to the last drop... :)

Posted by Tammy Lankford/Broker Lane Realty Lake Sinclair-Central GA 8 months ago

Clint - Great post. It brings to mind the importance of everything a professional puts in writing. I would like your opinion of my tag line for my Home Inspection Company:

"Accurate Investment Protection You Can Trust"

Thanks for your feedback and the great blog post.

Posted by David Selman (Selman Home Inspections) 8 months ago

Tammy -- Again, "largest" can be anything, not just size. But, yes...I do see your point. :-)

It is??? Hmmm...It's a good thing I have no brand loyalty to any of it.  I dont drink coffee. ;-)

You did force me to go and edit my post. :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

I like the elevator pitch! It's the first elevator speech I could see myself using that isn't "cheesy" or "phony". Once again, I am reminded why I love AR! As a newer agent, I really appreciate the advice and wisdom of you "seasoned" verterans :) Thank you!!

Posted by Jill Carlson (Park Co. Realtors) 8 months ago

David -- Thank you so much! Glad you liked it!

I have a problem with the word "trust". Telling me that I can trust you automatically makes me not trust you. Why would you feel the need to say that unless you really arent trustworthy and have to cover that fact by forcing people to believe they can trust you.....See what Im saying??

"Accurate Investment Protection -- The FIRST time...EVERY time!"
"Delivering Investment Protection since (insert year)"
"Investment Protection that delivers results!"

Any of those help?

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Jill -- Thank you very much! Glad you got something from the post that can help you! That's why I do this. :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Ironically I'm drinking Folgers right now, and that's the one I couldn't think of. (Though technically Budweiser could also be considered good to the last drop by some.) Good insights on taglines. I think the better ones also incorporate a location and/or niche (condos, lakefront, etc.)

Posted by John Novak - Las Vegas and Henderson NV Real Estate (Keller Williams Realty The Marketplace) 8 months ago

Clint, as I have commented before, I love your blogs and they usually can be applied to any profession; I'm a home stager, but I do subscribe to your blogs. They are simple, down to the point, and powerful.

Your second option shows confidence and that makes it very attractive. My tag line is: let the first impression sell your home. After reading your blog, maybe I should also add something else concerning getting results. 

Thanks for your blogs and the great content!

Posted by Shirin Sarikhani, ASP, IAHSP (Seattle Staged To Sell www.seattlestagedtosell.com) 8 months ago

John -- Thank you very much! And, I agree....being hyper-local is always important especially for a niche market.

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Shirin -- Thank you so much for the kind words! :-)

That is the intent of the 2nd option...it is a far more powerful statement from the client's standpoint. And, that is the one thing that is missed when people think of a tag.

I think you have the results part covered by providing the "sell your home" part.....that is the desired result, isnt it? ;-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Excellent post, if would be delightful if people listened to you. 

Posted by Ron & Alexandra Seigel (Luxury Real Estate Marketing) (ra@napaconsultants.com) 8 months ago

Ron and Alexandra -- Thanks! yes, I thinks so, too! ;-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint- I have never been a fan of over-used phrases or words("rap session" for one and I guess I just dated myself) and am bookmarking this so I can refer to it the next time I try to come up with some "Tags" for Staging.  I'm so sick of hearing "Staging to Sell" or trying to explain what it is I do.   For my ReDesign I've used "Want to fall in love with your home again?" but if you have any you can toss out for Staging, I'd love it!

Thanks, and thank you for always being helpful.

Posted by Kathy Streib, ASP,IAHSP,RESA, DelrayBch -South Florida - 561-914-6224 (Room Service Home Staging) 8 months ago

Great tips!  I have been trying to work on a new tag line, but am still thinking it over...

Posted by Emily Lowe - Nashville TN Realtor (The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty) 8 months ago

I think you should write for BusinessWeek - but you already knew that ;)

Posted by Mike Mueller (Tech and Social Media Consultant) 8 months ago

Kathy -- I feel the same way you do about the over-used and over-hyped words that are tossed around like yesterday's underpants. (Nice visual for ya, there....huh? hahaha!)

For intial sales....
"Staging your path to success"
"Helping you get the most since (insert year)"
"Sell your home for more money. Guaranteed."

For redesigns....
"Making your house your HOME since (insert year)"
"Its not just your house....It's your HOME"
"Delivering the look you desire"

How's that??

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Emily -- Thanks! I hope this helps!

Mike -- Thanks, man! Much appreciated!

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

good article it did make me think ,,,, I got some work to do ;-)

Posted by Greater Mortgage Solutions & Valley Hills Realty 8 months ago

GMS -- As long as you act on the things it makes you think about, it worked. ;-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Hey thanks for the post today.  Very good information. I'm always looking for help.

Sincerely,

Patricia/Seacoast NH

Posted by PATRICIA AULSON, REALTOR Portsmouth NH Homes-Hampton NH Homes (PRUDENTIAL VERANI REALTY- Portsmouth NH Real Estate ) 8 months ago

Your totally right.  I love the cliche logos EVERYONE uses..L-A-M-E.  Great post. Love your Death Metal sign.  Rock on

Posted by Trisha Pennington (Coldwell Banker Reilly & Sons) 8 months ago

Patricia -- Glad you liked the post...

Trisha -- I appreciate that. Yeah, those cliche phrases make me emotionally unstable.....er. ;-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Great thoughts Clint!  Thanks for sharing these with us.  I think so much of real estate advertising is old news.  What are some creative examples you've seen?

Posted by Ryan "Tiny" Crozier (RE/MAX Excel, REALTORS) 8 months ago

Ryan -- Thanks! I certainly agree and there have been numerous entries in the comments on the post...

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint

A really good article. Thanks for the post.

Posted by Ted Tyndall- FL Homes for Sale-Palencia, World Golf Village,Nocatee,St. Augustine (Davidson Realty Inc.) 8 months ago

Clint, you and Frank Lund would get along swell. You are totally correct, words do portray images and there are definitely some words better than others for impact with customers.

Posted by Guy Thomas (WR Starkey Mortgage) 8 months ago

Ted -- Thanks!

Guy -- Good company to be thrown into a sentence with. let alone compared to....Thank you very much! Regardless of what people may think, this is the first impression... ;-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint, nice and true. I am working on coming up with a tag line right now for a new website so this is prefect.

Posted by James Lyon (Vista Pacific Realty) 8 months ago

Clint - No one who wants to be taken seriously even uses "million-dollar producer" anymore, do they?  :-)  I thought that one was funny when I got my license in 1997, especially if you do the math.  Even a "multi-million dollar producer" could be making $30-45K after a brokerage split.

Posted by Jason Crouch, Broker - Austin Texas Real Estate (512-796-7653) (Austin Texas Homes, LLC) 8 months ago

Nice illustration Clint of how important it is to choose the right words.

Posted by Dan Quinn, Realtor, DanQuinnHomes.com (Prudential Advantage Realty) 8 months ago

Yea I do think consumers are numb to many of the tag lines. I have used on for a while but it seems tired to me.

"Old fashion service with rockin' technology".

Thoughts?

I like the word largest may use that.

I'm open to critism.

Posted by Missy Caulk-Ann Arbor- Realtor(R)- Ann Arbor Real Estate (Keller Williams-Ann Arbor) 8 months ago

This is certainly an area where improvement its needed, too many statements that really turn off the consumer.  I am still searching for the right tag-line.

Posted by Jennifer Fivelsdal, Mid Hudson Valley (JFIVE HOMES REALTY LLC) 8 months ago

Excellent topic, I am also working on a new tag line and this post was very helpful.

Posted by Lane Midgett (1776 Real Estate Group Richmond, VA Local Expert ) 8 months ago

Awesome post Clint! My tag line is short and to the point. Someone in my office a while back said, "everything I touch turns to sold"

Anyone have a throw up avatar?

That one is so overused. If it were underwear, it would stand in the corner by itself. :)

Posted by Jackie Connelly-Fornuff Century 21 AA Lindenhurst NY Real Estate (Lindenhurst Babylon West Babylon N. Babylon West Islip Islip) 8 months ago

LOL!  I'm reminded of a friend of mine who is now a multi-billionaire.  I remember him when he was just a little "piddly" multi-millionaire (as he puts it).

He came hobbling into my office one day wearing a brace on his foot after having surgery.  He was dressed up in a red plaid, long sleeve shirt, faded jeans, and boots that looked like they had been drug through the Texas Hill Country for a hundred years.

He drove an old, beat up '86 GMC "pick 'em up" truck (his words, not mine) and liked his whiskey straight... with a shot glass in each hand.  He told me his mama always told him to keep his hands busy because "idle hands were the devil's workshop."

Strange logic, indeed.  Did she ever tell him about drinking too much?  LOL!

Anyway, I asked him how he would define his (USP) Unique Selling Proposition... or, as it was said, the "elevator pitch."

His reply was, "I'm just a real estate developer and investor that has too much money and time on his hands.  But I still have to sit down to put my boots on, and I still have to put my pants on 'one leg at a time.'"

He never made much "to do" about being a multi-billionaire.  He was a sharp investor and his mind was as tight as the steel of a bear trap.

I won't give his name here, because he might be reading this.  And he doesn't like to draw too much attention to himself.

My pitch?

I write like I talk: too much.  I always have to tell a story.

Bob Cole and Sammy Alred (KVET radio in Austin, TX) told me, "Put a bumper sticker on it, Ernest!"

So, I guess "writer, copy writer, 'ad man'" really doesn't suffice.

Perhaps The Story Teller might be apropos.

Or the Samurai Copywriter.

Loved your article Clint.

Ernest O'Dell

Guerrilla Real Estate Marketing

Posted by Ernest O'Dell 8 months ago

Clint, love the post.  Now if only I could come up with a tag line I love as much as the post. 

Posted by Lora "Leah" Stern, Realtor Rockland County Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage) 8 months ago

We are all million dollar producers.  I think that is such a lousy tag line.  I still haven't found mine. 

Posted by Russ Ravary - Metro Detroit homes - Michigan Real estate & Mortgage info (Remerica Hometown One) 8 months ago

Clint, so true that careful word selection is critical especially for tag lines and branding.

Posted by Gary Woltal - Associate Broker REALTOR® Dallas Ft. Worth (Keller Williams Realty) 8 months ago

Real Estate for Car People...  And it has worked IN the real estate industry.  Now for the rest of the world...

Posted by Lane Bailey - REALTOR & Car Guy (Diamond Dwellings Realty) 8 months ago

Don't forget a picture is worth a thousand words too.  Make sure you wear a big hat, have your dog in the picture, lay across a Mercedes, pose with a rose, get your kids in the picture too, all examples in our market that scream professionalism.

Posted by Linda Lohman- Former Teacher/Broker (Fonville Morisey Realty) 8 months ago

I am going to have to save this one and come back to it again and again - thanks for a thought provoking post.

Posted by Lise Howe, Assoc. Broker and Attorney Licensed in DC, MD, VA,Coldwell Banker (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Chevy Chase) 8 months ago

Sticky is good? Wait, what were we talking about?

Posted by Agent Aaron | Hill Country TX Homes For Sale | Austin TX MLS | Avoid Foreclosure (Austin Texas Homes, LLC) 8 months ago

Hi Clint~Yes, it is important to chooose our words carefully, and  I think the real key is to use something that is easy to remember. 

Posted by Owensboro KY Real Estate Agent Vickie McCartney Realtor Owensboro Ky (Maverick Realty) 8 months ago

Hello Clint and congrats on the feature and I plugged in one of my hard drives searching for your print today, it took me a while because there are thousands of photographs. I couldn't take the one of the web site because the size has been reduced and the print wouldn't turn out very well. I should have it in the mail for you by the end of the week.

Keep those great posts coming my friend and I will read you later in "The Rain!

VB ;o)

Posted by ROBERT A.SWETZ - Commercial Real Estate (Commercial Real Estate - www.VegasBuildingsForSale.com) 8 months ago

I agree we all need to be aware of what the consumer is looking for and try to create the message with that in mind.

Posted by Terry Bonnie Westbrook Westbrook Realty Grand Rapids Forest Hills MI Real Estate (Westbrook Realty Broker-Owner) 8 months ago

Clint- I like your approach and creative thought process.

Power words Maximize Marketing Results.

Posted by St.Cloud Homes & Land, LLC 8 months ago

Great post.... I agree with John above about incorporating a specialty within the tagline. Kind of goes with your working smarter concept...

 

Posted by Las Vegas Real Estate - Summerlin Homes Paul Francis - (702) 592.3058 (Prudential Americana Group - REALTORS) 8 months ago

Clint:

You are right about the fact that people want to know what you can do for them. How will it benefit them to work with you?  The right tag line is not easy to come up with but can make a big difference in the public's perception of you.

 

Posted by Claudette Millette - Metrowest Mass Buyer Broker (The Buyers' Counsel) 8 months ago

God, Clint, you're making my head swim this early in the morning ;-)

Seriously, I don't know what I should use as a tag line. You've given some solid advice on what to use and what not to use, but it's very difficult to nail down something that is memorable, truthful, and that can be backed up with evidence/results.

Posted by William James Walton, Sr. Greater Waterbury Real Estate (Century21 Access America) 8 months ago

James -- Awesome! Make sure it is something you can use in the future to help with your brand in the long run, not just for now.

Jason -- I totally agree.

Dan -- Thanks!

Missy -- Yes, I agree. I dont think it's really that tired. In fact, it really says exactly what you provide. Personally, I like it.

Jennifer -- I think I mentioned before that I dont think there is a tag line that will hit everything you want to say. But, it should at least say as much as it can.

Lane -- Thanks! Im glad you found it of use!

Jackie -- HA!! Yeah, Ive seen that one in a lot of places. And, I actually do have a throw-up avatar. ;-)

Ernest -- It always makes me happy to hear about people like the guy you just described. Id much prefer to deal with people that dont flaunt their material goods to the point of making me want to choke them with a bullrope. :-)

Leah -- It really isnt a hard thing to do...It just needs to fit what you want to say. That is the hard part.

Russ -- Amen!

Gary -- Yes. Yes it is....

Lane -- That is actually a great way to attract a specific niche market. My question would be....how many people (like me that dont get cars at all except to use one to get from home to work and back) have turned away from you because they are NOT car people....?

Linda -- LOL!!! Yeah....and make sure you use one of your GlamourShots from 17 years ago with the hair teased to the moon and the makeup so thick it looks like it was put on with a putty knife. :-)

Lisa -- My pleasure!

Kyle -- Yes, sticky is always good.

Vickie -- Of course you want something that is easy to remember....and something that they can associate to you.

Robert -- Thanks, my friend! Much, much appreciated!

Terry -- You said it.

FPR -- Thank you very much!

Paul -- A specialty or niche is important. It gives you a good jumping off point and a potential target market to dominate.

Claudette -- That is how most people approach a decision.....what is in it for me?? Why not take advantage of that from the jump, right? ;-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

William -- You are right...it is hard to come up with a line that is truthful and can be backed up...But, if you do come up with one, it will be solid as a rock. And, that is incredibly important. Ambiguous statements like "Your blah blah blah for life" are just too weak to make an impact. You want your initial impression to be a good one, right? Make it strong and confident...make it factual...and then back it up with action.

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint, I'm glad I read your post!  I have been thinking forever about a way to incorporate my last name "Kareer" into my real estate business slogan/tag.   Would love to hear your suggestions!

Posted by Sara Kareer Century 21 Millennium Inc Brampton Mississauga Vaughan Real Estate (Century21 Millennium Inc Brokerage) 8 months ago

Sara -- Im glad you read it also. ;-) How are things in Brampton??? I know several agents up there....

Kareer, huh?? hmmmmmmmm.......

"Putting a 'Kareer' of experience to work for you!"
"Spending my 'Kareer' delivering results!"

Its really early....Im kinda drawing a blank....LOL! I will re-visit this after coffee.......

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Cathcy phrase there for Kareer...she needs to run with those.  Good ideas and suggestions....Thanks.

Posted by Gary L Waters PLLC-Realtor Viera Suntree Melbourne Rockledge Brevard County FL (Century 21 Baytree Realty, 1211 Admiralty Blvd, Rockledge) 8 months ago

Gary -- Thank you very much! I appreciate the vote of confidence.

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint - This is so true.  Honesty, Integrity, Professional is implied ... we don't need to say we are ... its about what we can do for others ... what we deliver ... what's in it for them.  My personal favorite over used line is .... Making your dreams come true.  While that may be true ... I feel it is over used.

Posted by Kathleen Daniels, CDPE, CHS (San Jose-Silicon Valley Real Estate (Intero San Jose Ca)) 8 months ago

How's this Clint?

1. The Real Thing: Jeff Turner.
2. The King of Beers: Jeff Turner.
3. Mmm mmm mmm mmm good: Jeff Turner.
4. Good to the last drop: Jeff Turner.

So how'd I do? :)

TLW...ROAR!

Posted by "The Lovely Wife" (Broker Bryant's Wife) The One And Only TLW. (President-Tutas Towne Realty, Inc.) 8 months ago

Kathleen -- Ohhh....yeah, I hate that line...LOL! Good call. ;-)

TLW -- LMAO!!! I cant believe it took 95 comments to get someone to do that....hahahha!

But, I agree! :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Wow, Clint -- that was pretty quick...especially for someone who didn't have a morning coffee yet!

you're good!

Posted by Sara Kareer Century 21 Millennium Inc Brampton Mississauga Vaughan Real Estate (Century21 Millennium Inc Brokerage) 8 months ago

Tag lines.  It seems few are good, and I know I've never been completely happy with mine.

Posted by Christine Donovan Costa Mesa Real Estate Broker/Attorney 800-610-7253 DRE01267479 (Donovan Blatt Team - Donovan Group Realty) 8 months ago

Clint

Ooooh I so agree but it's cool to see it in words. Really well written post. Ya got me at the budweiser!

:)

Posted by Jody Keating Connective Realty,LLC, Bryan/College Station,TX 8 months ago

Sara -- Thanks! Glad you liked the couple I did throw down...Hope that helps you!

Christine -- yeah, its hard to find just the right one...

CR, LLC -- Thank you very much! Glad you liked it.

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Hey Client, how's "This `Kareer' is focused on delivering you results.  Always."
I've subscribed to your blog...glad I found you!

Posted by Sara Kareer Century 21 Millennium Inc Brampton Mississauga Vaughan Real Estate (Century21 Millennium Inc Brokerage) 8 months ago

Sara -- Id change THIS to MY.......And I think I would drop the always....If you are talking about your career as a whole, the always is automatically implied, I think....



My 'Kareer' is focused on delivering YOU results!

 

I like it.

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Thanks for the great advice and critique  ... much appreciated.

 

Posted by Sara Kareer Century 21 Millennium Inc Brampton Mississauga Vaughan Real Estate (Century21 Millennium Inc Brokerage) 8 months ago

Sara -- My pleasure. My bill is in the mail. :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

..and so is the cheque. ;)   Have a fantastic weekend!!

Posted by Sara Kareer Century 21 Millennium Inc Brampton Mississauga Vaughan Real Estate (Century21 Millennium Inc Brokerage) 8 months ago

Sara -- You too!!

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint - this is som egreat advice - to do and not do. Some words really get overworked. And the same can be said for our marketing and MLS listings.Bet you have some thoughts on that, right?

Jeff

Posted by Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate ~ 760-840-1360 (RE/MAX Moonlight Beach (CA DRE Lic. # 01490977)) 8 months ago

Jeff....actually, I do! I will be posting that one on Monday!! :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Nice Clint - you have such great advice for us in the rain.  Evident by the fact I'm comment #111.  I need to give ours more thought.  We've used making connections to your success in Real Estate.  Where Making Connections is the tag and the trailer can be changed as needed...  Again, great post - Congrats on the well deserved featured Featured star

Posted by Lee & Pamela St. Peter Raleigh NC, Realtors®, GRI,CRS,ABR,ePro (Prudential York Simpson Underwood Realty) 8 months ago

Hi Pam -- Thanks! Im glad you liked the post. :-)

 

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

As a rookie, most phrases that I think of are untrue or not useful.  How about: Shana Haugen - REALTOR since 2009.  I think that'll really get the crowds excited!  :-)

Posted by Shana Haugen (Century 21 - Gold Key ) 8 months ago

Shana -- LOL!! I appreciate your humor....however, you can spin that in a positive light....

"Working to deliver results for YOU!" ---> It says just what you will do without setting you up for anything that will or will not be held against you with regards to your experience or history.

That type of thing...

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

I have to ask now though Clint... what do you drink while the rest of us are having our coffee?

Posted by Tammy Lankford/Broker Lane Realty Lake Sinclair-Central GA 8 months ago

Tammy -- Actually, i drink Propel vitamin water...and I eat an apple every morning. :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Clint - Great post!

2 years down the road here and having seen so many horrible tag lines (ie - the everything she touches turns sold - #fail) I opted for the very bland "Your Lake Powell Realtor"  Boring but good SEO.

Time to put more thought into this :)

Posted by Heather Rankin Lake Powell Real Estate (Burton Brokerage in AZ - ERA Utah Properties in UT) 8 months ago

Heather -- But, in that instance, boring is perfect. It says what you are and it can be leveraged for SEO. Nice call. ;-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 8 months ago

Some great tips.  It seems everyone else already said that.

Posted by Lakewood Lending Group, LLC 7 months ago

LLG -- Thank you just the same. :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 7 months ago

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