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Whenever a prospect or customer Googles you, they’d likely see your social media sites, Google Business profile, and website, if you have one. They may also see your real estate profiles from Realtor or Zillow.

While it’s an essential part of your business for your profiles to appear in a Google search, when’s the last time you actually looked through them to ensure they were optimized? An optimized profile means it’s easy for people to understand who you are and therefore, want to reach out to you.

Don’t stress out if you haven’t done this yet because you’re not alone—93 percent of real estate agents are not optimized on Google and social media. In fact, Real Grader examined over 250,000 agent profiles and the average grade was a 30 out of 100.

Here are some of the biggest mistakes they saw:

• Lack of branding
• Inconsistent social media
• Broken links
• Outdated info
• Negative info
• Duplicate profiles
• Missing profiles
• Listing data is not accurate

In this article, we will break down each of the following sites and provide a step-by-step guide for how to improve your profile.

1. Google Business

Google Business is generally the first thing that appears when someone Googles you. If you have this set up, people will see your profile information, website, reviews, and office location on the right side of the search page.

One thing to note about Google Business is that it’s owned by Google—the biggest search engine out there. This means you should make yourself as searchable as possible. The name you put should reflect your business’ real-world name as it is used on your business storefront (if you have one), business cards, website, and letterhead.

Your business page should also have:

• Your headshot
• A link to your website and digital card
• A bio and mention service areas in the bio

The most important thing to be mindful of on Google Business is your reviews. Aim to have at least 25 five-star reviews. If you’ve got less than 25, make it a habit to start asking happy clients to leave you reviews after they close.

2. Facebook

You likely have a Facebook Business page, but is it connected to your Instagram? Connecting the two platforms makes it easy to cross-promote and share your Instagram posts on Facebook.

Here’s how to improve your Facebook profile:

• You should have a branded cover image
• Just like Google Business, make sure you include your business name
• Provide a solid call to action that goes to your email or directs people to message you on Facebook Messenger, for example.
• Include links to recent Instagram posts and ask people to follow you if you post on Instagram regularly.

Create a solid call-to-action button that goes to your email or directs people to message you on Facebook Messenger, for example. Include links to your recent Instagram posts and ask people to follow you if you post on Instagram regularly.

3. Instagram

If you use Instagram, make sure to name your profile in a way customers can find you publicly. Consider separating your personal Instagram account with your business, if you haven’t done so already.

When it comes to making sure your Instagram is optimized, we recommend the following:

• Include a unique bio and don’t be afraid to use emojis
• Have at least one call to action link

4. LinkedIn

LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for acquiring clients, making new connections, and generating leads. Whether you’re highly engaged with LinkedIn or not, it’s a business-centric platform where potential clients and new business contacts can find you.

Therefore, it’s important to:

• Have a professional-looking branded cover image
• A high-quality headshot
• Be connected on the platform to your real estate office
• Have an updated bio, contact info, links to your website or other social media platforms

Pro tip: Upload your database to LinkedIn to find and create more connections.

5. YouTube

YouTube is the most underutilized social media by real estate agents but the one that has the most revenue potential. One website said most real estate agents see Instagram and Facebook as simpler and more accessible for audience-building even though 122 million people use YouTube every day.

Even if you only use YouTube to post your listings, make sure you have the following in place:

• A cover image that appears on your channel homepage
• Create a bio
• Upload a professional headshot

Bonus: Make a welcome video that lets viewers know who you are and gives specific details about the kinds of homes you specialize in.

If you’re interested in being more active on YouTube, start with the welcome video and create a plan for how often you want to post and what kind of content you want to create.

6. Real Estate-Specific Sites

Realtor Realtor.com makes it easy for clients to find agents online. Make sure you have a branded cover image that is consistent with your other online profiles. Add in links and your phone number.

If you haven’t done so already, add in the cities or areas you cover, which helps potential clients find you and understand what areas you service.

Also, you might want to add Realtor to the list of recommendations and reviews to ask for each time you close with a satisfied client.

Homes

Homes.com is another fast-growing real estate site and claims to be the most “agent-friendly portal” with over 149 million visitors each month—higher than Realtor and Redfin. So, list your profile here, include a headshot, and add in your social media links for more exposure.

Zillow

Like Realtor.com, make sure your service areas are updated. Because you likely use Zillow consistently, make sure your “sold” data is up-to-date and if your reviews are sparse, start asking for reviews from happy clients.

Refine, Refresh, and Attract New Clients

Optimizing your sites may take some time, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve been on some of these platforms. However, it’s a necessary part of your business because it helps put you in front of new leads.

When your profile lacks a bio, headshot, or has broken links, potential customers can’t get to know you. They don’t get a good grasp of who you are and what kind of work experience you bring to the table, and as a result, won’t feel confident about reaching out to you. They’ll likely jump to the next agent who has a more detailed online presence.

If you would like a free digital audit of your online profiles to save you time and provide recommendations and solutions just visit www.RealgraderAudit.com.

To download Real Grader's guidebooks visit RealGraderUniversity.com/downloads. Real Grader offers a package to get it all done professionally along with ongoing coaching and education to maximize your online presence.