The Official ActiveRain Guide

ok... Looks like I have my work cut out for me. Some of the above I have been doing and have done. thanks for the check list...

"Points don't get you leads"-- Brad

Well said Brad...I couldn't agree more!

Notice: Photos can no longer be uploaded at the state or county level. City/Community photos now show now in states also.

Am I missing something? Help!

 Brad...

Tonight my Blogs for you! Watch for it!

Brad,

I've been working hard to get my points and as you know I'm working on my first Localism post.  Thanks for the "points"...

Brad - Thanks for reminding me.

Hi Brad,

Great post! I appreciate you taking the time to share your helpful ideas.

Alex

Christina - you crack me up too!  :-)  Glad you enjoyed and find this post useful.

Donna - you don't have your work cut out for you, you have your FUN cut out for you!!

Ricardo - Thanks for your comment. always appreciated!

Joan - leads and referrals are at the TOP of the list of Great things that come from Active Rain and blogging.  One post in front of the other, brings great rewards!!  Thanks you for stopping by here to share.

Lizette - Tell me about it...I can hardly find the time to multi-task anything these days.  This post is just my way of helping some of the members get how it all works...you know..."point" them in the right direction.

Judi - I'll be checkin out your post...thanks for the comment, I added you as an associate!!  :-)

Kelly - you're welcome!

Cyndee - key word there is "busy"! Thanks for BM'ing me!!  :-)  BM = Bookmark!  LOL  Thanks.

Sally - for someone pretty new at this, you're sure doing a good job!!  Keep up the good works!!

Alex - it's my pleasure!  It's said that what you put out, comes back to you... wish I could gve you $1,000,000.00  LOL!!

Siha - at 1:45 in the morning, it's no wonder you're seeing red!  I know you meant read!  LOL  Thanks!

Brad...

Do I want to be featured in my area? Nope. I am quite happy just hanging and doing my thing :)

TLW...ROAR!

Brad

Great points and and a wonderful push to get me off center.  I have been building it up but so far haven't made my first post.  I keep wanting to do something great and the desire to do something great is stopping me from doing anything, I need to get off my duff.  Thanks for the motivation.

Hello. thanks for the advise,is a big help.

helio 

Brad,

I was logged on at the time I added the subdivsions to localism and have checked the points summary.  I got points when I first started for six neighborhoods I added the first week or so I joined.  One afternoon I was home sick and brought our area up to date as no one had ever added any real neighborhoods (just towns).  I added around 20 or more that day if if I recall but did not get any points in my points summary.  It isn't that important but I am very clear on the fact that I am not clear on the scoring on AR. No big deal. But thanks for answering the blog challenged.   

Wow, Brad, what a great post. I hadn't seen this until I was checking in on one of the comments I made to someone "new" on the Rain. I was going to link mine vast array of what I've learned as well, but didn't know if that was okay or not. Guess it is since YOU - the Brad, did it, huh? Good info as usual......

Hi Teri -

I have been asked by one of the moderators to try and help others by "Paying It Forward" with their posts and blogs.  They are looking for posts that have good content, graphics, links, and readability...easy on the eyes.  I am still trying to master this art myself, but many other members need help in this area.  That is why I do my welcome comment to newbies.  I am always trying to help others write "Featurable" posts.  The moderators really need our help in this area, I owe them that!!  Thanks Teri, glad you found this post!

How Ironic, the graphic word below is: PASSION!!  LOL  :-)

Notify me of new comments:

What does the graphic say?

Howdy Brad

Congrats on a very good post and very helpful post

Brad, did you just copy that? Passion?

I just tried to and it didn't work. In fact, my glitter thingie won't copy and paste anymore either.

Guess I'll reboot or something. I like my new "handle."  :-)

Teri - I just copied and pasted it from the screen below that comment. I thought it was ironic that it was the graphic for that post.  Only once in a while do I get an appropriate one like that!!  Hehe For example, on this comments it grapes!! Oh Well...

Just Highlight it with your mouse, then paste it in your comments like this:

Notify me of new comments:

What does the graphic say?

Hope that answers your question.  :-)

Had to come back and brag, I got glitter!

Well, I'm not sure if it is glittering yet, still working on it. Thanks Terri

Brad, thanks for use of your comment area for me to use as my testing ground.

www.glittermaker.com  Now it is really glittering.  Thanks again Terri

Frank - you are ABSOLUTELY Right!! 


Content is the KING!

Referrals are the QUEEN

Net Working is the PRINCE

Points are the JESTER... (just kidding for all you point hungry members)  LOL!

Rosemary, I don't mind the glitter, just please don't litter!!  LOL  (wink wink) :-)

Teri - Look what we've done!!  Haha!  Enjoy your day!!  :-)

Hi Renee - I think blogging is one of the BEST forms of prospecting in my opinion...the main page of Active Rain states:

Welcome to the Community! We are a free online community for real estate professionals designed to help them promote and grow their business.

Callie - The other agent may be cutting and pasting posts, and might be doing only the activities that get points and to the max!  (many of us members can tell) Trust me when I say, IT'S NOT ALL ABOUT POINTS!!  Go for the "BEST" content and look at the Big Picture.  This will "eliminate" some of the others as competitors.  Write for your readers, your community, and your business.  The points will come, and so will the business.  I know it's frustrating to see someone else capitalize on the point thing, but they will come and go!  Just focus on your content, your posts, your comments, your clients and your business!!  These are the "valued roots" of blogging on AR. 

Remember, anyone can get 1,000,000 points eventually, but what is your true goal and purpose for blogging on Activerain?.....give it some thought....then boldly go forward and focus on that goal!!   :-)

Thanks Brad for visiting my blog. I am taking the points seriously, but not at the expense of quality content. All my blogs will be my own work.

Incidently, I've moved into 2nd place in Oceanside CA today, my second day!

Bill Roberts

Brad,

Thank YOu again for your article.  I am wholeheartedly dedicated to becoming featured in my area.

The people invited recently have had problems with their invitations from me.  I repeat the instructions in my invite. Even so, I have not been credited for their acceptances.  Are those points lost forever?  Those that I invited that I personally assisted in accepting the invite were credited to me.  I don't know what the problam is, but I have already lost points for 5 different invites.

Brad,

Thank you for your information.  I contacted Active Rain after reading your response and found on yet in another blog that they were no longer giving points for neighborhoods.  That blog also had a link to Active Rain.  Both times I went in through the links - the other blog allowed if I entered between May 28 and June 1 - which is when I did they would correct and give me credit - I got a response that said - sorry no longer given points for adding neighborhoods.

Brad,

 This is a lot of good to know info.

Thanks

Rob -glad you liked it, how's things your neck of the woods?  It's been a while since we've spoke, hope you had a great 4th....don't I still owe you a drink?  Here's one on me!!

You 'must' check out my flagged blog about 200 points.

Thks for the beer.

You forgot to mention you have to be hungry and then when you make it to the top you have to run as fast and as far as you can because they are all chasing you. It's nice to be on top. Thanks for the 25 need to stay on top.

Thanks for the tips on blogging, Brad. I am working on my first one, and hope to write many more. It's like going out the door for a run.... the first step is the hardest!

Wendy Casey

Vancouver, BC., Canada

Leanne, thanks for that info, I will make the change...I sure do appreciate you pointing that out!  I don't normally update old posts, but in this case I need to!  I also heard that you SHOULD update posts so that google will come back and push you up higher if they see changes have been made.  :-)

Scott - at least you didn't just take the 25 and run, you took the time to comment, and that's what counts. The real question is will you come back and comment again to this comment, and snag another 25?  LOL!!
Thanks for your insight and for raising the second question (which may just be my next post)

HOW HUNGREY ARE U?  :-)

Rob - I think you drank that beer too fast, you already told me that about 4 comments above you last one.  Did you forget to read my comments?  Dude...what's up with that?!?  LOL!  :-)

Lanre - don't focus on the points, focus on your content, your business, your quality and your audience!  Thanks for your comment!

Wendy - I remember being there, it's just as hard today as it was my first post. But, it does get more re-assurring when you know you're surrounded by friends and other network professionals that are here to help if you need us.  :-)  Nike says it best!  "JUST DO IT!"

Daniel - great questions!  I'll answer the 2nd one first.  After I wrote this post (about 2 weeks later)  Active Rain removed the points for added communities.  In the comments above, you'll see that Leanne Paynter reported "AR stopped rewarding points for adding communities/neighborhoods!"  So with her update, and your comment, I did go back in to this post and removed it from the blog. 

The 1st questions was to get you to ask the very question that you did?  You caught it!  When you pay for a webpage, you also pay for the domain name and space on a server from an ISP.  If you don't renew your domain name or ISP service, your website comes down off cyber-space and browsers will display "WEB PAGE NOT FOUND".  If I pass on next year, I did not pay a fee to have my blog on AR or any of the other blogging networks and providers.  If you don't update your blog post, it still remains on the internet, long after you are gone.

The beauty is, your great great great grand children will be reading stuff you wrote for years to come. So, be careful what you write, these will be on the web till you delete them.  Makes ya think huh?  That's my story and I am stickin to it!  :-)  Just FYI, i would occasionally update my older posts since google likes to see that kinda thing!  I just did it to this one, let's see what google does with it now!  Thanks Daniel, let me know if this addresses your comment to your satisfaction. 

I'm pathetic . :^)

Didn't know on the LAST comment if you saw the FLAG part.

Duh....(me)....

..... have a good one.

Hi Brad,

I'm back again. I joined AR a week ago. You visited my blog and gave me some suggestions. I followed some of them. You know I'm somewhat challenged as this is my first experience blogging. Anyway, it's one week later and I am here to tell you that I am #1 featured member in my area (Oceanside CA) and I have over 5000 points. Thanks for steering me in the right direction!

Bill Roberts

Hey Brad ... Your a BIG HELP... In the education dept... GREAT IDEA'S ... DID YOU LEAVE ANTHING OUT?:)

Mary Jane - Thanks!!  The only thing I left out was this space for your comment...thanks for adding it!!  :-)

PLUS you got 25 points just for being so kind!!

"Good suggestions.  For those who desire to be featured, all it takes is a little hard work."

Brad, you have no idea how funny that was.

http://activerain.com/blogsview/148320/Obvious-plagiarism-on-the

Hope YOU personally are doing well, I've been all over AR and only run into you on occasion.

It's always hard work to achieve the TOP!!  The man on top of the Mountain didn't fall there!  Ooops...is that plagiarism?  Now that's funny!! 

I have been well Rob, and I too, have been traveling all over the rain, I see you got me beat with 2337 comments, I only have 2200...Great job, I'm right on your tail.  Hope all is well with you too! :-)

If we were not competitive, we would be working 9 - 5 Monday through Friday with no chance of anything but a 2% per year raise - the points give Active Rain a way of basically keeping score and our competitive natures make us pay attention.

I positive agree it should be about content - but where would we be without our competitive spirits?

Beth - Now you're talkin!!!  (Big Smile)

Julie - very well said!  Salespeople are "The Most" competitive in the world!  We should be added to the Olympics!  LOL!!

"but where would we be without our competitive spirits?" Not the "Featured Agent!".  Thanks for the comment Julie, you covered both sides of it very well!  You get 5 stars!!

Brad,

Thanks you and my active participation on Active Rain, I'm a featured member in my area!

Funny Rob - you never struck me as a drug user!!  LOL!  Not really, you totally did!  ROFL!!!!!

Christopher - CONGRATS my friend!  That's not the hard part, staying there is!!  LOL!  Best of luck to you and I hope being in that position drives you more business and leads than normal! 

Remember to thank the folks at AR everytime you get a lead, a deal, or a contact from AR, Localism, or another member.  Without this network, we wouldn't be having this exchange of comments!  I think that all too often, us members take that for granted.  I have tested my theory with an outside blog, I have posted over 20 posts, and only got a few comments from around the world.  Active rain gets you comments, SEO, friends, and business!

WOW!!!  What a DEAL!!!!  ....and I haven't even gotten a bill from them yet!  :-)

Brad

How did I miss this post for so long?  Great one.  I gave you a nickel (not that it matters much, now).

Thanks for taking the time to share your knowledge..Much appreciated

Shane - thanks...only implement what brings you business....ALL OF IT!!  LoL!!

Todd - You're welcome!

Andrea - happy to do it, what goes around, comes around!!  :-)

Dionne - glad you liked it!  I have been able to share many things with the agents like yourself in our area, alot I just don't have time to post on AR.  If you're interested, I will be doing a training for the CRB in October over in Concord/Walnut Creek. It's a Blogging roundtable, just FYI!  Thanks!

Hugh - I was a newbie just 4 months ago, I remember the feeling and the experience. Always here to help out a fellow AR member

Anthony -  I have posted many items on my blog that may be useful to you. Would love to help anyway I can, if you start there, then use the search function in AR to find items of interest, you'll be up and running in no time. Let me know if you need any assistance.  I'll network you to the right people.  :-)

Brad,

Thank you so much for the information.  I actually signed up for this site a long time ago but it wasn't until I started setting up my website that I realized how useful it was.  My website has an area for blogging and I didn't know what a blog was so I googled it and ended up back here.  I find myself here several times a day now trying to figure it all out.  I am so glad I found your post it has really painted a clear picture of what it is all about. 

I look forward to catching up on all of your past post and can't wait to read the future ones. 

Thanks again.

Howdy Brad,

I read your insightful advice. Well I better get started right now!

Happy Trails . . . until we meet again,

Patti Lyles

831-335-2100

Brad,thanks for providing the math of the AR. A week ago, when I started, I did not even know one get points - I thought people are just talking about stuff they like, are interested in, want to learn about and want the public to learn about. On top of it all, it turns out, we get points, we get featured, we also get worried about not getting points and not getting featured. It's great. I just hope all this pressure wouldn't get to me (lol). 

Brad~ You know how awesome I think you are, but if you keep blogging like this, your points are going to spill into Placer County, and well that just can';t happen my friend;) (kiddin)

Seriously though, you are too right, and your enthusiasm is always a real inspiration! 

Great post...I can see why it was pointed out as a good example of how points work here on AR!

Bob Mitchell

ValueList Real Estate Services, Inc. 

Brad - Great post.  Wanted to let you know that my blog The Mystery of the Horse was featured on Localism.com  I couldn't believe it.  This was one of my better posts and I put my heart into it.  It also had good photos.  Funny thing is, I read your blog after I wrote my post.  Thanks for the great info.

Other than that - great post!

Brad,

 Your blog is most helpful.  Is there a way to send an automatic response to new members on a daily basis?  Or is there a way to see the new members each day or week? 

 I'm also a little confused about the "adding associates" to my account.  When I add a friend as an associate, does it only show up on my profile when they join A/R? 

Thanks for your support for new bloggers!

 Jan Evett

Jan - thank you!  There is no automated way to welcome new members unless you created some kind of a macro. If you go to the Activerain.com main home page, you'll see a link that says "NEW MEMBERS TODAY"  I have been using that to welcome new members in my area and some others too.  You still have to post in the comments, and only one at a time. 

When adding associates, it will show up under "My Associates" link.  You can only control your comments on others pages, you cannot control what they comment on yours.  This is a powerful tool in AR as it can act as your referral or reference page that others will read before deciding to add you or not.  Let me know if this helps answer your questions. Thanks Jan, glad to help!!  :-) 

I still have one question...

Is a week Monday-Sunday or just the total number of posts within the last 7 day period?

I haven't tried posting as many posts as it would take to figure this out. I don't come up with that much good content in a 14 day period.

Thanks for the advice. What do I get for being a featured member. If it's more business, I guess it's a very valuable advertising tool. Your blog is filled with a more information than most blogging books. How do you have time to actually get any work done. Or do you consider this work? It should be generation a lot of business for you.

Thanks again. I'll be reading and learning

Hi Elizabeth - A featured member just means you havethe mot points in your geographic area.  That does have some benefit but not as much as having good content in your Blog and your posts!  My book will be coming out soon I hope, I'll put you down for the 1st copy! LOL!  :-)

Time?  I use the early morning hours and the late evening hours to make it work! I have a full time job, I'm a father of 3, a husband, a musician, a photographer, a coach, a trainer, a martial artist, and a Blogger!  I actually sleep for 7 hours a night as well.  Hmmmm...how doe he do it she asks?  I have a higher Power... and it's not coffee! hehe.

This is work for me, I just had to give up my needle knit, my crochet, and my bowling league! LOL!  Honestly, if you use Blogging the way many here do, it will increase your business and your marketing efforts will pay off in great dividends!  Keep reading, learning and Blogging, you'll only get out of it what you put into it!  Happy Holidays!! 

Hi Brad!

Another way to get some of those coveted Bonus Points is to notify AR when there is a problem with the site. Worth 100 pts!

Brad,

Being a newbie this is great advice.  I look forward to learning more as I blog along.

Came back again, still needing tips, still have not reached that "featured" status.  Oh well, maybe next year!

Debra - congrats on being #1!  I'll keep my lips sealed and won't invite anyone from your area! LOL!  shhhh...

As soon as they figure out that you are benefiting from your Blog and Active Rain, they will flood the gates, but you will still be on top. Just keep focusing on content, that's what the consumers need most from you. :-) 

Brad - I have enjoyed reading every one of your posts.  I really do appreciate all the time and knowledge that you share.  I continue to learn from you.  Thank you very much!  Have a wonderful weekend!

Meg - you're the best!  Thank you for your comment, ya sure know how to make a guy feel special! Thanks!  :-) 

Joseph - you are welcome, I hope you didn't just pop in to get your 25 and run!!  LOL!  Here's a little test!
If I ask a question of you Joe, will you come back and answer? Or are you gon with the AR wind and rain?

Question:  How long have you been here on Active Rain?  I just want to test theory based on your comment. There is no right or wrong answer!  Thanks Joe!  :-)  

Question Brad,

I am new to AR and I am in the mortgage industry.  Where exactly are my prospective clients looking when they run into a blog that I have created.  Are they looking on AR or are the just seeing my name and posts from doing a web search of mortgage people in my area?

I new and confused and really believe in AR already.  I just am having a hard figuring out all of its advantages.  HELP!!

Charles - Welcome to Active Rain. Your question is good, and commonly overlooked by many new members.  There are a couple things to consider:

1. When you ask, " Where exactly are my prospective clients looking when they run into a blog that I have created."  it depends on who your clients are?!?  Are you talking about AR members? Or Consumers?  Active rain feeds out to a site called localism.com which is intended for the public and local communities, but I find many of my viewers are coming right to my Active Rain posts.  They are coming from all over the Country too.  

If someone does a search in google and finds you, they might end up at your profile page, your Blog, or a post within your Blog.  I don't know the stats for how many consumers search AR by agent name, area, or featured.  Let me know if there is anything I can do to help you out!  I hope this helps.  Just start writing, the rest will follow.  Focus on content and nothing else.  Who is your audience? What is your voice or experience, Now write an attractive and effective post!  :-) 

Hi Brad, Thanks for the post, good info.

Thanks, that was interesting. I always wondered how people got SOOOO many point!! I'm not sure what it means to "add someone as an associate"? ANd if blogs are basic, then you don't check the boxes for being local, right?!

Great Post!  I never knew you got points for uploading photos to Localism.  Good Stuff!

Great Post!  I never knew you got points for uploading photos to Localism.  Good Stuff!

Cody, you might want to wait a bit before hitting that submit button again.  Might also want to go back and delete about nine of the above.

I think each comment that you get points for has to be different, not 10 of the same!!

Yeah, I got impatient once and kept clicking the button.  Same thing happened to me.

Live & Learn.

The featured agent in Kentucky is so far ahead of everyone that it'll be  a real battle to knock her down.

I've given up on watching the points.  I just post and comment as I see and feel the need and desire.

The points tend to take care of themselves that way.

-

Thanks, that was interesting. I always wondered how people got SOOOO many point!! I'm not sure what it means to "add someone as an associate"? ANd if blogs are basic, then you don't check the boxes for being local, right?!

Jeannette - adding someone as an associate is something you do if you like.  You can also comment to that associate in the comments box. When someone adds you as an associate, their comments often times will build credibility to you, your blog, or your business.  It's the do unto others principle. :-)

The Local option I think you are referring to is for Localism.com.  That's if your post is directed to a local "Public" audience.  Let me know if that helps!  :-) 

Wow Brad! Not only can I use it, I will have all my associates read it. In fact, I will make it a point that people I feel can really benefit even if they aren't new read this. Thank you!

This should be in the tutorial section. Umm...is there a tutorial section? Still new. 8-) 

Tara - this is a great tool for getting started, I wish it was here when I started!  Each member helps to build a community and it is no different here. I'm just doing my part as a member just like all the committed others!  I guess you could call this a tutorial, I like to call it "Paying It Forward", a term you will hear often on Active Rain.  If you want some more posts like this, I have categorized them at the bottom of my Profile page. Just click on the link under my photo above, that says: More about me...

There were a ton of comments, so please forgive me if you've already answered this, BUT when I put my area in localism and went to photos, I received this message:

: Photos can no longer be uploaded at the state or county level. City/Community photos now show now in counties also.

Doe this mean I cannot gain any points for adding photos, or am I doing something wrong?

Brad

This article is very helpful since I am a newbie. I finally learned how to upload a photo. Thanks to you 

I know this question has probably been asked and answered a hundred times, but I have not been able to find an answer. 

How do you become a "Featured Real Estate Agent" in 2 cities?.  I am Featured in Sahuarita AZ. which was difficult seeing that I am the only one in my area :).  I would also like to be listed in Green Valley AZ and Amado Az since these are all our areas of service.  Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Ralph Schnelle

ReMax-Valley Properties
520-940-0614- cell
520-300-5445- fax
www.myrealestateofarizona.com/
www.real-estate-of-southern-arizona.com/

Brad - You should probably revise your post a bit now that they are no longer allowing points for photos posted to Localism.  This was a great, comprehensive guide to getting points on AR but I'm so glad you qualified it by saying it is the quality of your blogs that counts most!

~Renae

I'm sorry, Brad!  I meant that they are no longer allowing POINTS for photos posted to Localism!  Sorry about that!  (I'll edit that comment so no one else gets confused by my mistake!)

~Renae

They just changed that (no longer giving points for photos) because too many people were scamming the system and posting tons of irrelevant photos just to get the points. 

~Renae

Thanks Brad - so I had a question (I think it's the scientist person in me and not sure if there really is a specific answer out there but)...I've noticed that some folks even in their very beginning stages of blogging get hundreds of visitors and tons of comments the same day they post a blog.  So my first assumption of course is the title must have attracted folks to view the blog in the first place and the content inspired them to comment.  But sometimes I see interesting titles that get very few visitors.  Do you have any insight on this one?

Jessica: 

I think it's a combination of a few things things:

• The time that you've been here
• The effort you put into your posts and comments
  
• How many have subscribed to you
• What groups are you adding your post to
• The title of your post
• The content of your post
  
• The reciprocation to others blogs
• Getting Featured gets you tons of comments

These are just a few reasons that come to mind.  I'm sure I could come up with more once I finish my coffee. :-)

You get out of the rain what you put into it.  Many will post the first few times and only get a few comments if any.  Some try to sell or advertise their first few and those don't work well either.  The posts that come across like a good conversation at a table or over a cup o joe, are the ones that usually generate the most comments and interest. Build.....and they will come, but you have to reciprocate, or they will leave. 

Read, Write, Comment, Create, Learn, Share, and Grow.  That's what the "Science" in me has learned!  :-)

Speaking of points...you have a lot of them!  Congratulations, and thank you for the advice.

Sylvie

Billie - there's a bit more to it and it's actually much easier than a cut and paste method. 

1. First Join the groups your interested in.

2. Now write your post and just put a check in the box of the groups that you want it to appear in.

Be sure your topic and post meets that groups requirements.  You won't see the option to select groups and check the boxes unless you are in edit mode, or craeting a new post.  Rememeber, you have to join the groups first before you can have the option to post in them.

I hope that helps!  :-)  Let me know... 

Once again, great post! Thanks!! I am new and found all of your posts so helpful :)

Gary - 280! LOL!~  The points "In" the post are so much more im'point'ant than the points "from" the post and comments!  I Always welcome and enjoy your comments Gary, thanks!

BTW - didn't you get 25 points out of the deal here too?  Never mind, don't respond, that would be 50 points in one night off my Blog and you're just not that kinda guy....  (BIG Smile)  :-) 

Brad

As ever - thank you for the great information. If I do blog about AR, which I was going to do anyway on my heatherrankin.net site, how do I let AR know that I've done this thing??

Also, another ? if you don't mind. Is it helpful to put a link back to my heatherrankin.net site on each blog I write, or is having just one link on my AR profile the way to go?  So much to learn and still can't believe the amount of help you offer.

Cheers! 

Heather - you can write a post about it, contact them by email, or leave them a comment on one of their emails. You can also let me know when you post it and I'll go tattle tale for you!  LOL!~  :-)

As far as your linking, my suggestion is to add it to your links on your Blog, and your Profile.  I don't feel it's necessary to add it to every single post.  Hope this helps, let m,e know if you need anything else at all. We're glad to have you here.  Your Questions tell me you are really trying to make value of your time and efforts here. Trust me, you will!  :-)

Pam -

Here's what you do:  Look for the

It's at the bottom of every post on AR.  Simply click on it and it will turn "RED". That means you've bookmarked that post on AR.  To view your bookmarks, click on "My Home" at the top of the page, then scroll down and look on the left hand side of your screen for "Bookmarks".  Just click on the link and you'll see all the bookmarks you have tagged. Hope this helps Pam, let me know!  :-)

Anita - glad this helped!  Just a few more comments, and this one makes it to Blog Post Heaven!  :-)

I had to search to find Brad again. The information I find has been a great help.  After a couple weeks on active rain I am really enjoying the information and networking.

Steve

Steven, you found me! Yeah!  Glad you did too. Wait till you're here for three months or longer, I can't wait to see how blown away you'll be then.  It's great to watch new members join, learn, read, write, post, grow, and share success stories, and almost in that order.  I love this place for sure, and I know you will too!  :-)

This is great information. Thank You !!

Eric - glad you enjoyed! You're very welcome.  Let me know if you ever have any questions or need assistance here.  I may not be the sharpest knife in the drawer, but at least you have a friend IN the drawer.

easy enough!  I have been here a bit, but still learned something from your blog.  Thank you Brad!

Thanks for all of the helpful tips Brad. It is nice to know that there are so many people like you in this network willing to help others.

Helpful information to someone just getting their feet wet by the Rain. 

Casey, thanks, and you're welcome back anytime you feel like it. My Blog is always open to you. :-)

Charles - it's nice to know there are people on the network who appreciate it like you.  Thanks.

Thomas - thanks, gotta start somewhere, this seemed like a great place to make a POINT at the time! :-))

Thanks Carolina - the quality of the photos on Localism is way more important than the points, just in case you do come by here to comment! lol~ 

Active Brad becomes Magic Brad in the phone Booth! haha!!  :-)

Brad, great post! you condensed all we need to know about points and how to become a featured agent in Houston Texas. Too bad that the amount of pictures in Localism overwhealmed the system and now we don't get points for it. However, is always good to have exposure.

Carolina - sorry I missed your comment. Featured is GREAT, but getting business and connecting with others is far more important. Content, Consistency, Creativity will get you to the top. :-)

Thanks for the info.  Looks like you are doing quite well with it especially with over 300 comments and counting!  Anyway I subscribed to your blog so I can keep getting great info from you :)

Thanks for subscribing, you can find more of these posts at my profile here on ActiveRain. They are sorted by category for easy reference.  Just scroll back up to the top and click on the "More About Me" link under my photo, you will find over 100 posts sorted my category there. Enjoy, I'll keep the light on for ya...  :-)

Good basic info, but worth cutting and pasting for future reference.

Kevin - just watch that cut and paste thingy, depending on what you cut and paste, that could cost you some big bucks!  Let me introduce you to Lenn Harley. Read her Blog. It should be a pre-requisite here on AR. :-)

Brad - thanks for the warning. I went out to Lenn's site. I am not sure I fully understand where the lines are when it comes to copying and pasting, but will try to be a bit more careful. So much for the old quote -- "Imitation is the sincerest of flattery."  :)

Kevin - I think it's ok to use snippets, but I'm not the expert on that stuff. I just try to never get too close to that line.  It's one I have heard you don't want to cross.  I do see members use quotes and snippets though, and they're not in court or jail.  There are plenty of posts here on AR that go into much more detail on plagiarism.

Brad, Thanks for the helpful post.  I'm glad to see you've gotten over 300 posts on this!  That means you're helping a ton of people all the time.  great work! Thanks for taking the time to put this together and giving all of us some very useful information.  Active Rain is a great site but can be mysterious.  Your advice clears up a lot of questions.

Thanks again,

Melody Salazar

Thank you so much for clarifying things.  I'm still confused by Localism and posting listings etc.  I'll take your advice and click around and explore.  Thank you again!

Kathleen Murray

Melody - thank you, if this has helped any members, than it has served it's purpose in the rain and I'm happy.  The comments are cool, but that's not why I do these.  If there are any other mysteries I can help clear up, you know where to find me.  :-)

Kathleen - you won't be confused for long, watch the feature board on AR this next week. There's some really big news coming about Localism. That's all I'm allowed to say right now.  Big News!! 

Click around and explore, there's plenty to learn and do in the meantime. Enjoy!  :-)

Brad, thanks for the points overview.  I just starting to build points and learning about AR by reviewing and commenting on others posts.  I hope to begin blogging when I am able to make the committment to stick with it...  Thanks again, Mike

Mike - you CAN do it.  Just balance your time and write the best content you can. The rest will come my friend. If you worry too much about points, then you'll lose sight of how important content is.  Build your Blog and they will come, I promise.  :-)

VERY helpful post.  I was a little frustrated last week when I added 10+ neighborhood photos to Localism and didn't receive any points.  I'm glad I did it though, because some of the neighborhoods didn't have ONE photo!

Kerry - the quality of the photo is most important. When you do add them, veiwers are linked to you. All they have to do is click on it and they're at your AR page. Make sure quality always comes before quantity in everything you do on ActiveRain. The benefits are priceless.  :-)

Hi Brad... OK, so I have been here for a while and just like when I buy something at IKEA, I try to assemble it first and read the instructions later.  I was reading the post and never realized we only got 10 scored posts per week (I don't think I ever exceeded that anyway), but it got me thinking... for scoring purposes, when do days and weeks end at AR?  Which days and which time zones?  Or, for scoring purposes, is a week considered any 7-day rolling period?  Just curious! :)

Steve - the week starts and ends on Saturday at midnight.  Not sure what time zone that is though.  I know when I post on AR, it's always 3 hours earlier than it says on the time stamp even though I am on the West Coast, same a AR.  If I post at midnight, it says it's 3:00am on the time stamp.  :-)

I feel better knowing you don't stay up till 3 a.m.!!! Thanks for the post - I just made it to page one in Ohio and I am on a campaign for results from all this fun blogging...your tips are always "cherce" Thanks Brad! Did I miss the big news on Localism or was that the outside blog grand opening?

By blogging I have learned so much and continue to learn from some of the best experts in the business. I have not seen a new client or referral yet, but I was able to refer a client to another agent I met on Active Rain and I know if I keep on blogging the business will come.

Dawn - congrats on your placement in Ohio.  Not sure of Big News yet on Localism, I've been pretty tied up with the New Outside Blog launch. I know there is a rumor about the New Localism coming out soon, keep watching for that one!  :-)

Brian - the business will come, just keep learning, blogging, and focusing on great content in your blog!  :-)

Thank you so much Brain for all the great information on how to use Activerain.  I am still learning new stuff every day and helpful blogs like this one really save me some time.

Lisa - glad this saved you some time, there is a lot to learn and some great stuff out in the rain. Enjoy!  BTW - dod you call me Brain?  I like it, thanks!  :-))

your link to "contests and challenges" is dead.  but, other than that< great and informative post.

Brad ... here I am blogging, 2:15am.

I'm working on Localism all weekend ... TONS of stuff to do!

pippa

oh yeah, added the u-tube on the grammy post ... thanks for the idea.

Judy - thanks, I went ahead and fixed that. This post was written over a year ago, so these things are bound to happen from time to time. Thanks for pointing that out to me, I owe you one!  :-)

Pippa - GO TO BED!!!!  Working on your Localism plan is good, but get that much needed rest!  You'll get more done when you're fresh and focused than you will when you're excited and tired.  Been there, done that!

Yeah!  I just made it to the featured member status.  Now... to stay there.

Kathy - CONGRATS!  You made it, just focus on good content and consistency now.  Being featured will not get you business, writing and providing great content will.  :-)

Great post It also helps to be in a area of localism that is easier to be the big fish. There is just something about climbing the ladder that motivates me personally. But I have to admit the learning curve is somewhat time consuming.

Jerome - the only way to overcome the learning curve is to do just what you are doing, dive in and take in all you can.  After a yea here, I am still learning new things everyday.  It never ends in the rain.  :-)

Points question?

Do you get points for answering questions in the Q&A section of AR?

Toby and John - no points for answering questions in the Q&A section but BIG POINTS when you do a post about how you answered a question in the Q&A and a consumer hires you to sell or buy a home. When you write the post sharing that story with other members, I'll be sure you get some extra points just for sharing it on your Blog. Just don't forget to let me know.  :-)

Dude - I'm number 7 in Wake County and number 3 in Cary - but I'm not in Localism...

I'm NOT whining - I'm just asking what I'm doing wrong.  Could someone please read through what I've written re: Divorce and Mobile Homes and let me know why those 2 (at least) are not showing... maybe I'm not searching correctly - I put my name in and there's "no results found"

Thanks.

Eleanor - you're whining!  :-))  Your posts are always going to be on your localism profile, whether they are featured or not depends on if the content and post are approved by the editor.  You can always find every post you write attached to your localism profile.  :-)

Thank you. I found this information very helpful since I am a recent member to active rain.

Thank you!  I am now beginning to understand the point system!   It is not as big a mystery as I thought.

"If you are not in the top 10, you will not show up on Localism.com in your area."

Hey Brad, I'm #4 in my area and I'm not showing up as a neighbor---what's up with that---can you help me, please--pretty please! 

Brad, thanks for spelling out the way to achieving what everyone is setting out to do.. I get the point!8)

Simone - Welcome aboard and thanks!

Sharon - the points are definately not a mystery once you understand how they work.  Too bad points aren't based on the quality of content. Focus on your content for business, not points for ratings!  :-)

Aida - as you know, the new Localism is still undergoing some changes and will reflect these changes in time.  You'll find all your posts are on your Loclism profile, we are only pulling posts from members that were submitted after 1/1/08.  Keep writing great content for your Localism area, you too can be a top neighbor.  Your AR points and status (which is what this post is covering) are different than localism.

Rob - cute!  Thanks.  :-)

Thanks for the poibts getting tips!

Nyles - no prob. (not sure what a poibts tip is) lol~  :-)))

Thanks Brad---I will be patient

you said: "You'll find all your posts are on your Loclism profile--  Localism Profile? not sure if that is the same as my regular profile!  Where do I need to go to see my Localism Profile---I feel dumb asking but I am not sure!

p.s. Is there a suggestion box on AR?  just wondering!  

Aida - your profile on Localism is at:

http://localism.com/neighbor/activebrad but instead of ActiveBrad, put your user name from your AR profile.

So yours will be http://localism.com/agents/aidapinto

Never feel dumb asking these questions, the dumb ones are the ones NOT asked. As far as your suggestion box?  Feel free to contact me anytime.  The Q&A at the top of the AR page is for consumers, not members.  We have talked about adding a Q&A for members, just hasn't been incorporated yet.  :-)

Brad,

I have achieved "Featured Member" in my local area, but know that I have to keep blogging regularly in order to stay there.  Thanks for the great advise!

Hi Brad,

With all of the recent changes, I am not sure how to upload photos in Localism.  I was able to easily upload one before but not anymore.  I do not see an upload feature anywhere in Localism.  Please email me.

Catherine

Michelle - Being the Featured Member is awesome, congrats!!  :-)))

Just remember that more of your business and relationships that get establshed, will come from your content, not your photo in the featured spot.  I'm sure that you already realize that. Having the best of Both worlds should be your ultimate goal here.  :-))

Hi Catherine - yes, there have been many changes here in the community, all for the better I think.  You can still upload photos to localism, just go to any community (as long as there are already photos there) and underneath the existing photos, you'll see a link "Upload Photos".  If there aren't any existing photos, it will be a few days before you will be able to add photos to that neighborhood or community.  Here's a sample page to demonstrate: http://localism.com/ca/la_jolla

Brad,  thanks for more great advice and tips

Thanks for the helpful tips. I am very new to this, so every comment does help

Thomas - anytime. :-)

Adrienne - welcome and feel free to contact me anytime if you need some assistance here.

Brad-

I enjoyed this post and the information was extremely helpful to someone trying to build their profile and relationships on ActiveRain!  I appreciate you!  Thanks.

JB Brookman

Castle Homes and Estates

Ladera Heights, CA

Real Estate and Mortgage Services

Brad,

Thanks for all the tips and practical advice on getting started. 

Best regards,

Al Colhoun

Prudential CA Realty

Lake Tahoe, CA/NV

JB - I appreciate your comment and you too!  :-)

Al - practical is something I hadn't considered!  lol~  Thanks, getting started really is 3/4 the battle on AR.

I'm working on my first blog. Are there any texts or 'how to' sites? How can you be sure a 'comment' you've made is well placed?

Thanks for all your tips to help us newer members navigate around Brad!

Kevin - if you do to my profile (just cick on my name below) I have numerous "How-to" posts that may help. Feel free to contact me if what you're looking for isn't there.  You might also try the "Getting Started" link on the main ActiveRain page. There's a link at the top of the page under More Information. Hope that helps. :-)

Amy - we were all new members once, help is something many of us didn't have back then. I'm happy to have found a place here on AR that I can share all I have learned.  I do love my job here, and I hope you'll love and benefit from being here as much as many of us have. Welcome and good luck. :-)

Thanks for the tips!  I'm a newbie, but I'm catching on fast. 

Brad, Again many thanks for your wealth of info. Ray

Celina - that's great! Welcome aboard the"Rain" train.  Happy to have you here.  The more you hang out, the more you will learn. You can just set your own pace.  Enjoy, and best of luck to you here.  :-)

Ray - you're welcome, the wealth comes in many forms and fashions here on ActiveRain. I like to share the wealth and hope you will too!  :-)

Thanks for the good pointers and the clarification. I have been a little confused about the whole point system.

You got right to the POINT and cleared up any confusion. Many thanks!

Melissa - glad this helped. You're already making good use of the points by commenting here! lol~  Thanks.

Mark and Wendy - hahaha!  Your "point" is well taken. Thanks!!  :-))

I have subscribed to your blog so I can learn. But I need to know how to customize my home page on AR. Several people have colorful backgrounds, etc. I have read but cannot find it. Thanks.

Carol - here's a link to a video tutorial that might help you get that setup. Let me know if it helps or if you still need assistance after watching it.

How to customize your AR Blog

Brad, this is great information thanks.  I look at points as a way of keeping track, but I also look at points as a way of being seen.  I know as I have moved up the rankings I am getting more responses to my blogs, So I will keep blogging, keep commenting and keep inviting. And learning more and more with each day.

Brad I appreciate all you contribute and do for us newbies!!  Thanks for the info

Thanks for the insight, Brad - new to AR and counting on your guidance!

Thomas - points are just a small and yet important part of AR.  They motivate, they reward, they keep you on track, they get you results, but they don't get you business and you can't cash them. 

That is until Localism was launched. Now those points really meant something.  Now they were worth having and using to get first shot at sponsoring communities.

Keep pressing on my friend, you just never know when the next thing is coming on AR where those points will come in very handy.  :-))

Katie and Donald - Glad to have you here, look forward to seeing your contributions and growth here. Welcome and Enjoy!!  :-)

Much better understanding of the points deal!  Thanks.  Now, what to blog about........I have some thinking to do!

More good tips from Brad.  Linking has worked pretty well for points for me in the past.

Brad - Thanks so much for sharing - I love all of your posts!  Great info!  ALso, I am a featured member and would like to stay there!

Brad,

Great post.  I have to agree with you - Points do not get you leads.  I have decided to do more localism posts to keep me on Google first page.  That's where the leads will come.   

Thanks for the tips, I'll do my best to make the AR community proud! I already love it here.

Great information. I now know how to dominate my area. I will soon become the highest rated member in my area.

Anna - think hardest about good titles, good content, good keywords, and good links with photos and video. The points are great but these other things are what generate traffic, leads and business.  :-))

Rosalinda - BINGO!!!  Stick with that concept and vision, you can't go wrong!!!!   :-))

Ilyce - welcome, it only gets better. :-)

Ryan  - you remind me of ME.  Goals are very important, stay focused with a purpose. Nice! 

Norma - Hard work WILL keep you there, the results of being there is the payoff. 

Seth - Linking is one of the keys to driving traffic and SEO, points are nice but transactions are BEST!!

Hi Brad - Great series of posts.  I'm going to work my way through your posts as a "new member" would to get back up to speed on Active Rain as it is today.  Thanks!

Tony - I see you're back and welcome.  I just featured your post about the new voice and no sooner was there a comment from you here.  It's great to see you back here on AR, you were one of the first Masters I ever read here on AR.  If I can ever help you out, please let me know.  Welcome back my friend, you were missed.

Glad you decided to repost this, I learned a lot for sure. I am amazed at how people work this thing and didn't know you could repost and it would show all your comments from the year before. How do you do that?

Thanks hope to see you again on here

Hollis - Actually, this is not a repost, it is just still active from 6/1/2007.  If you decide to ever repost something, the comments will not be carried over to the new post.  We do have a reblog feature now on AR that could keep posts alive as well, I think after your comment here, I'll add the option to this post.  Thanks.

I couldn't read all the comments, but it is interesting that those who cut and paste really don't realize how bad it is.  I find most people are just doing the best they can.  Have you ever run into a truly "evil" cut and paster?

Brad,

Thanks for the thoughts.....I'm realizing more and more that you do need to put the time in to see the results.  I just had my first inquiry from a FSBO who contacted me through AR. Pretty exciting stuff!

Logan Utah Real Estate

Great advice, I try to log on AR everyday and at least read what is going on and leave some comments.

Ardell - all I can say is in the past year and a half, I have seen some things!!  LOL~  Always nice to see you, stop by more often if you can. Thanks!  Hope all is well with you and the business...   :-)

Kaleb - congrats on your first FSBO lead. Awesome. 

Just FYI...no need to leave links in the comments, there's already a sufficient link attached to your name.  Some consider that Spam or attempted hijacking of a post.  I know you didn't know better, so just a friendly reminder and "Tip" for the day!  :-))

Freddy - that's staying connected, sounds like you got it under control.  :-))

Thank for the great tips. You never disappoint in the content of your blogs. You must spend a lot of time just answering all the comments you get and that doesn't even include the time it takes to write on and come up with the ideas for new blogs. We at A/R are very lucky to have folks like you on A/R. God Bless

Brad,

Thanks for the informative post. I've just hit 20,000 points this week and I'm finally getting a handle on how they work.

I was told that you had to sleep with Rich.

Pat - some of my posts do take a considerable amout of time to respond to  questions and comments, but I don't mind as long as the content is helpful and creates threads of value.  One members' question in a comment, can help many of those who happen to be following that thread.  There's power in them there questions and comments!!  Thanks for keeping the thread on this one alive and well. lol~ 

Jon - Congratulations!!  What's really exciting is when those 20,000 points convert to numerous leads and connections with others helping to close more transactions. Points are great, but connecting with others and growing the Business "points" is really the best! :-)

San Diego Homes - that was random...   haha!! 

Shouldn't that comment be on the post about Inmans Real Estate Connect in SF last month? 

Yes, it's true, Rich and I had to share a room, but I never slept with the man, as you may or may not know....

I don't sleep!  :-))

Brad,

I'm paying more attention to what I'm doing to learn and to  see if it has value for AR blog. I'm also listening to what other realtors are saying for the same reason (of course, keeping confidentiality).

I've often said that all of us are experts at something, and we just have to begin telling stories.

Just what I needed.  I was wondering how to "dethrone" the reigning "featured" folks for my area. :)  Long way to go.  Kudos to them for putting the work in .  THanks for the heads-up.

Emily Cressey

Earnest - if you use your AR Blog an this place properly, it can and WILL be very effective.  It's a unique experience for each individual in their own way, but everyone comes away with something good.....

.....best of luck to you always.

Hi Emily - this post was not to make you motivated to "dethrone" anyone!!  hahaha!  But chasing them down is kinda fun. :-))

I am so glad I read your post - I was a little confused of how you get points but now I see! Thanks!

I really never paid attention to the posts as I am just trying to create good content on a regular bases and learn from others.  I looked at the points and noticed that I was given 225 for blog posts today -- your post here says 200 -- not sure what that is all about.

I noticed your blogs frequently and have learned a lot from your posts -- thanks

Thanks so much for the input as a starter blogger I really appreciate it!

Nicky - there's many ways to get points, but there's only one way to get business....   :-)

Scott - carry on my friend.  Points are given for comments too. Not just yours, but when others comment on your posts as well.  There's points everywhere, but the point is, they're not the most important thing, at least not for some of us.  :-)

PJ - welcome to the Blogosphere.  If I can ever assist you any way, please let me know.  We're happy you joined this network to begin your Blogging experience. Thanks.  :-)

ok now I understand where the points come from.  Thanks for the good info.

Paul - get bonus points if you go to my most recent post and ask the "grand" question. :-)

Hi, I'm new to ActiveRain and blogging.  This is intetresting information, all of it.  Thanks a bunch!  See ya at the TOP!

This was exactly what I was looking for, thanks for the info!

I was just getting "OFF" the point trip, now you have me hooked again

Anne

Mitzi -Welcome! Keep focused and your eyes on the goal, and we will see you at the top. Best to you.  :-)

Jen - it must have been looking for you too.  Let's just call it destiny!  lol~  Thanks.

Anne - the points are fun and very motivating, but they mean nothing to the consumer o your business.  If you write for business and establishing relationships, the business will come, and the points will just follow.  The most important thing is to enjoy yourself in everything you do on and off the rain.  That's the best "point" I can give today.  :-)

Points might not mean leads, but if we had more leads we wouldnt be on here getting points. :-)  Its actually a great job by Active Rain in order to get all of us to use more of this site and tell other people about it. Its probably how they get alot of their own "leads". 

Brad, I appreciate (as I'm sure many of us do) the time you've taken to share your knowledge.  As a newbie, I am so thankful that you and several others have put this kind of info out - it certainly makes things less daunting.

Thank you for the great posts that you have on AR for newbies.  I've been reading them every night.  Also, by posting here, I'll get more points!

Justin - we don't get leads, but I know many of our members get a ton from AR. Not just leads, they convert to transactions and relationships.  :-)

Sandy - there are so many great posts and members here, welcome to AR and a wealth of information and a bunch of really great people.

Bob and Richelle - thanks for reading, I hope you are enjoying ActiveRain.  Good luck to you and don't worry about points, worry about providing valuable content to your readers, and building great relationships by commenting and corresponding on other members posts.  All the best!!

I don't quite get the "points" thing yet, but with or without points, this is a wonderful resource. Thank you.

Thank you for the reminders.  I agree, blogging and commenting is where it is at.

Wouldn't you just want to have a great post like Brad's?  433 extra points just from the comments.  No wonder he is already one of the most featured guy on Active Rain.  Lead by example!

Rick - don't worry about points just yet, they will just come, focus on connecting with others here and providing great content to your audience and readers. You'll do great!  :-)

Robert - yes, good Blog posts drive comments, and good comments inspire more ideas which in turn create more Great Blog posts!  :-)  Thanks for commenting my friend.

Sylvia - your posts are just as good, and the comments will come as you continue to grow here... remember, 
Everything grows better in the "rain!"  Thanks for that wonderful comment, you really made my night.  :-)

Very informative and a great tool for new folks, like me!  Thanks much!

It may take me weeks to read all of this - but your main point is well taken.  Keep up the good work. Will use your wisdom to help grow my business.

I'm whelmed. Not overwhelmed yet, just whelmed. I'm thrilled that I was invited to the community and hope to be an asset. This is magnificent

Hi Brad...more good information as usual!  Points may not get you leads, but being a featured agent (in my opinion) does.

It would be great to be in the #1 spot for my area, love the point system.

Nice post, and it explains the points system very well.  I have been on AR for almost 3 months, and try to choose what I write about very wisely, as I also believe good content will get more business than the points.

Nice post, and it explains the points system very well. I have been on AR for almost 3 months, and try to choose what I write about very wisely, as I also believe good content will get more business than the points.

Troy - You Nailed it!!  :-)  Remember that comments are read by many as well, so comment wisely too.  Looks like you're doing a great job to me. Thanks.

Watson & Assoc. - you are very welcome.

James - if this stuff helps grow your business, and I know that's why you are here and do what you do, then all he effort that goes into my Blog posts are worth it.  :-)

Ron - Whelmed is good.  I too am glad you were invited to the community and I hope you get as much out of it as many of us have.  There is no better place to network, Blog, build relationships and learn in my opinion.

Cheryl - being featured is cool, but content is why consumers and other members will pick you.  If you blog for just points and your content is not rich and valuable, featured or not, it will not get you leads that convert to transactions.  I'm not saying this is you, just in general. :-)

Jeremy - it would be better to be the #1 agent in your market area, but being #1 on AR has it's benefits and privileges too.  :-)

Thank you Brad for all this information.  I am very new at this and the way you explain it makes it seem easier. 

Brad, I am also new to AR and have only done 9 post on the blogs, I am a featured member now and fully appreciate the visibility. You are right it is not only about the points is about who you are and what you share with the rest of the community. Thank you for the 25 points!

Great easy to understand action item.....blog, blog, blog!  I am gonna blog like crazy.  I don't intend to write junk either.  I wil write about things I enjoy, both personal and professional.  Thanks.

what great points you make!  Thanks for the tips...I did not realize some of the ways you could earn points.

Thanks for the pointers. I just joined on here within the last week.

I'm going to get started in the blog world...thanks for the tips...I'm looking forward to navigating around this website and learning more about the RE community outside of my own world.

Your blogging success is mind boggling.  I hope to figure this out and get to your level.....  In time..

thx...

Vickie - if it makes it easier for you, then mission accomplished! :-) Welcome aboard.

Antonio and Alexia - Sounds like you're on your way. You know where to find me if you need anything here.

Brien - Blog, Blog, Blog is exactly right, and especially about the things you are passionate about.  Once you get going here, it will be hard to stop, you'll love the network, and the people.  The members are what make this place "The Best" place to be.

Sonja - points a good, relationships are better, getting referrals and business is the BEST! :-)

Dave - Welcome to ActiveRain, we're happy you joined.

Holly - you're gonna be here a while, there is so much to learn, and just when you think you've got it down, you'll learn 3 new things that day!  Awesome, just awesome.  It's the people and a lot more.

Tim - I'm here to help you do that.  I have to be replaced by someone someday, why not YOU?  Let me know what I can do to help my friend, be happy to assist any way I can.

Brad,

Thanks for the post. Sage advice, that I can attest to over the last two years.

Creating internet presence is a vital prospecting/marketing tool today.  Figuring out what kind and how much is the challenge. It's easy to get caught up on the internet and I know that timeblocking this in and protecting my time is critical. Blogging can be addictive! Thanks for the tips.  I look forward to providing valuable input and learning from the community.  Laurie Lohoefner, Laurie Kay Properties, Keller Williams, Battle Ground, WA

Thanks for the useful info.  I'll keep on blogging.

Laurie - super comment, thanks.  Looks like you really get it.  I'm looking forward to seeing your "valuable input" al through-out the community.

Mike - good, it's in your best interest, and your clients too. :-)  Aloha

I'm new to AR and I bow to you the "Blogging King." I'll be reading your blogs for tips and advise. You rock!

I was just talking to another AR member in my office and we were discussing the point system, but both said we didn't know exactly how it worked.  Thanks for this!

Cecily - no bowing please, just throw money...10's and 20's please!!  LOL~  Isn't that what they did in the old days for kings? hahaha,  Seriously though, thanks for the comment and the compliment.  :-)

Nishika - points are great, motivating, fun, and competitive, but they just don't compare to the relationships that build up even faster than points.  Never let those points get in the way of the valued relationships that can and will be created here.  :-)

Thanks  Brad,  Your suggestions are great.  I've been disappointed lately though because there are two agents in my area who are obviously writing posts only to get points.  The posts are either ridiculously short and low to no content or simply recycled posts with just a change in area.  For instance, one agent will write a post about "foreclosures in Concord" and then just copy and past the exact same text and pictures, but change it to "foreclosures in Kannapolis".  This just seems to cheapen the whole experience.  I hope the powers that be can come up with a way to handle this abuse of the Rain.  It seems that if we can get extra points for really good posts, there should be a deduction of points for negligently poor posts that are there for points only.

Regardless, you've inspired me to write content rich, quality posts without worrying about the points so much.  Thanks again...

Hi

It's a good info

I think i was really not thinking all about the things u mentioned but now i will

Great post.  My competitve side comes out.  I now want to be the featured agent!

I'm, trying.

Thanks for sharing

Rich

Charlotte NC

Brad,  I'm back to AR after being AWOL from it for some time.  It's good to learn again from your blog about how the point system works.  I've noticed in my absence that the quality of blogs has greatly improved with your changes.  Steve

When I first saw the point totals of the leading members in my area, I was about to give up any hope of making it close to the top, but after reading this it seems to be very attainable.

good tips, will try to get some more points, I think will be nice!1

Thanks for the great overview of the points system - and thanks again for your help today!

Brad,

Thanks for all the great tips. I am working on it!!

Betina

Neal - just keep writing content rich posts, the other stuff and people will work itself out, they never experience the success they think they will by gaming the system, they end up usually just going away. :-)

Sunil - there is a lot to learn on and from this network, some things you just have to learn from experience, others can be learned from someone elses mistakes. It's all about learning and growing no matter what it takes to get us there. :-)

Zane - better to be the featured agent in your readers and subscribers eyes than having your photo at the top of some page they may never see.  Content is "Elvis" on ActiveRain.  :-)

Rich - just be sure to have fun in the process! :-)

Steve - great to have you back on AR.  I think the quality has increased over time partly due to the increase in membership and the amount of "Pay It Forward" members on AR.  Looking forward to seeing you get back into the swing of things here. 

Stephen - do NOT get discouraged by points and placement of other members in your area, like a good game of Golf, your biggest competitor and person you're trying t beat i Yourself.  Don't be distracted by the surroundings, use your surrounding to help you focus and reach your goals.  (hint hint)

Sharon - always here to help you out if you need.  Thanks for commenting and it was great getting to work with you, and know you a little better.  It was my pleasure. Thank you.  :-)

Betina - anytime, if there is anything I can do to help, you know where to find me...   :-)

This is a great site and I love all the helpful hints!!! I am brand new on the site and look forward to networking.

Michele -  welcome to ActiveRain, I'm looking forward to getting to know you and networking as well. Thanks.

Thank you for all the great information you have given. We are new to AR and it is very helpful to get a blog with such detail.

Thanks for the tips! I am new to AR, and actually new to blogging all together. I guess you could call a rookie. I will look into any "secret" ways to get some additional points along with committing to posting at least once a day! Thanks again!

Donna - welcome to the community, let me know if I can help in any way. We're glad to have you on board. :)

Hi Lori - just remember that your content equals your success. Your efforts will become your rewards. Only post every day if you feel that is what you need to do. It's not all about points, it's about building business and relationships. :-)

Thanks for the great advice!

RE/MAX EXCEL

83 E 1400 N

Logan, UT 84341

www.excelhomesutah.com

I enjoy blogging and building an online presence that will help my business.  The points is an afterthought, but its fun to see people comment and read other peoples blogs.

Bard,

Great post, I have been looking on the AR web site for a scoring summary like this but I have been unable to find it.

Thanks for taking the time to detail this.  I have discovered a lot of this on my own, but I leanred some new things like about getting points for being a featured article!

Thanks for this Brad the Bard.  I will have to read it over and over and over again but I am determined to learn this. 

Thanks for the info. I knew I would find the answers on here somewhere.

I will definitely be doing my best. Again thanks!

This looks like a great website with lots of information!  I am new to the blogging era of the internet --- but I am eage to learn and share with others.

Thanks!

THis makes sense...just trying to figure which of the multitude of social networking and Web 2.0 tools to use should get me 100,000 points:)

Morgan - excellent insight.  Growing business comes after growing and cultivating relationships. :-)

Mark - glad you found this post to be useful, we are always looking for great content and posts to feature.  :-)

Kappy the Happy - how did you know my most common typo is Bard?  LOL~  Thanks for commenting and I'm glad Happy you found this post.  :-)

David - I wouldn't say these are all the answers, just some helpful tips to help you get around and understand how the points system works here on AR.  Enjoy, looking forward to seeing your posts. 

Tammy - Welcome.  You need to login to AR so you can get points.  If you were logged in when you commented here, you wouldnot only get 25 points, but there would be a link-back to your profile attached to your name.  Two benefits of being logged in when you make comments on other members posts.  If you need any help here, just let me know. Welcome Aboard!  :-)

Josh - none of them. Points come from content and participation. There are no better tools than your writing and involvement here.  If you make it about people and business, helping others and sharing ideas, write and post transparent Blog posts using your natural voice from who you really are, the points will just come.

As usual an informative and helpful blog.  Thanks for the many points about points.  Great job!

Oh, my. Seems to be alot of info worth examining. Thank you for this blog and this site. I'm excited to help my business grow. The key is where to get started? Any suggestions?

Evelyn - glad you got a few "pointers" LOL

Lisa - best place to get started is the "Getting Started" link on the main AR home page.  Trust me, save yourself some time and frustration.  :-)

Good to know where all these points really come from...

That was very helpful and generous, Brad.

Helpful site... nice to know about the point system....hope it materializes into leads......

Please don't worry i will not be taking any leads away from other realtors...... real estate is not my business though i do work with

alot of realtors......especially during tghe holidays and at closing times..... good luck to all those who want alot of points

David - Blogging creates realtionships, those turn into leads, leads become business, business builds referrals, and points are just a by-product of the entire process!  :-))

Hi Brad:

This is very informative!

Thanks for sharing...

Wow thanks for your tips.  I am new to AR and looking for a leg up.

great.

Toula - no problem, thanks for the flower!  :-)

Connie - Welcome to AR, heck, put both legs up, relax, and enjoy your ActiveRain Journey!  That's how you get a leg up around here.  LOL~

UPDATE:

I think the linking points have been removed, so I have edited this post and removed that bullet point.  If you place a link on your website back to AR, you will most certainly benefit from it, but you will no longer get points for it.  This is my understanding anyway after a conversation today with our tech dept.  Thanks.  :-))

Nice post & thanks for the tips.

I'm brand new to Active Rain, although i've been in the real estate business since 1999 and active internet marketer since 2005.  I've just recently started in the Property Management field in Atlantic Beach FL and am pretty excited to see what ActiveRain is all about. Thanks for the tips on the points. I love to blog, and that will come through once I get going......Thanks again!!

Tracy - welcome to AR.  :-)  If you have any questions or need any assistance at all, you know where to find me.  Looking forward to all your Blogging and successes here.  :-)

Great advice Brad...I'm really motivated now!

I'm new to ActiveRain and feel I've just entered something new and adverturesome!  I'm excited to be a member and welcome any suggestions from current members!  Thanks and I look forward to being a very involved member of this community!

Amber - you go go go!!  :-)

Denise - we're happy to have you here.  Be sure to login to AR first before commmenting, this way you'll get a link back to your profile from your auto signature, and oh yeah, you'll get 25 points for each comment you make on someone else's Blog post.  :-)

That's an invitation to more mediocre blogs.

Blog moew, get more points.

Too bad there's not a way to "blog more quality material, get more points" or even "blog more worthless crap, get less points."

Quantity over quality.

Jim - not sure I totally agree with that, but interesting point.  AR was built on points by the early members and founders and their Blogs were anything but mediocre.  Unfortunately there are those ONLY here for points, but let's not confuse them with those that aren't.  Great content and great people will ALWAYS prevail on AR. Thanks for commenting, it's always appreciated. :-))

Jim - you must be THE most loquacious Active Rainer ever - congrats!

Oh, I think not; there are many more here that not only talk more but they say far less. ;-)

What I'm saying in my response is that AR is filling up with a bunch of worthless crap along with the continuing gold mine of valuable information.

It now takes far longer to mine the good stuff than it used to.

Jim - I remember the good ol days you mention, back when there were only 40,000 members, but if you read as many posts as I do everyday, I think you'd find that there is more good gold than crap on AR these days.  The beginners from back then have gotten much better, and most the crap you mention, well, those people are gone.  Like any goldmine, I think you will always have to sift and pan for the really good stuff, let's just be glad there's still gold in them thAR hills!  :-))

Hey Brad...I'm fairly new to Active Rain...as I haven't frequent much. I'm still trying to figure out the logistics of the whole idea of gaining valuable points...I find your blogs so informative and full of useful tips!  I adore the fact that your blogs are tailored to help and assist fellow members...Thanks Brad, keep up the awesome work!

As a newbie to the business and activerain I am on overload.  Thanks a bunch for the tips!

It's been awhile since I have been on activerain.  I am glad that I found your post.  These are great tips.  You have motivated me to BLOG MORE!  Thanks

Jacqueline - thanks, I really do like to focus on helping new members here on AR.  If you need anything, just let me know. :-)

Dana - I can only imagine, if I can ever be of assistance, please don't hesitate to let me know. Good luck to you, you'll do great!!  :-)

Wanda - welcome back.  Glad you found my post too.  Getting motivated is one of the finest compliments you could give me on this post, thank you very much, I'm glad it had that affect and impact on you. 

I wish they still awarded points for linking to the site.

Jon - sorry about that, maybe at some point they'll bring that back.  :-)

I have totally enjoyed everything that I have read posted by you! Some of this stuff is way over my head but I think if I keep reading your posts I will figure everything out slowly but surely. Is there someone at AR the can be hired out to help with adding widgets and meta tags and better customization and all the other things that I have no clue about? I do have to sell real estate at some point during the day, AR could easily consume a day without me realizing it until my pets get hungry and demand that I give it a rest!

Hi Jackie - I just sent you an email, give me a call, I'll help you get setup.  :-))

Great post.  Helped me understand the process.  Thank you

We did have a couple glitches today, but things seem to be running fine now. :-)

Mark - thanks, glad you found this post useful.  :-)

Just a quick reminder, for those of you who find this post and are looking for linking points to your website, AR is no longer providing bonus points for linking the AR page to your Website or other Blogs, at least for the time being.  You will however still enjoy the results and benefits of having those links in place.  Thanks.  :-)

Hi again Brad,

Another great post.  I hope AR is paying you scale because you are very busy and that's a good thing.

Anyway, I am new to AR (in relative terms) but you are so CORRECT as I was pleased while one day just doing my routine blogging, my profile refreshed and noted I was a "Featured Winner."  Wow!  talking about winning the Oscar.  The the cous de gras happened as I noticed my ranking really started to climb.  Again, in fully agreeing to what you have communicated, ranking is also a numbers game of how many AR's there are in your local community but for me again I was surprised because my area is a well known community adjacent downtown Los Angeles.

Thanks again for sharing and keep up the great blogging :)

Great Post.  Thanks for the pointers.

I'm new to blogging and have been reading alot about how it is done, this one helped alot. Thanks

OCF - Glad to see you are a rising star here on AR, and I wish you all the continued growth and success this network and it's members have to offer. Happy Holidays!!   :-)

TBRE - NP.  :-)

Keith - welcome to AR, the main thing is to just start writing and keep on reading.  It will just keep coming to you and keep getting easier and better as you go.  Have a great Holiday!  :-)

Only 382,000 more points bfore I reach the featured memeber! Time to get busy:) 

Thanks for the good info, looking forward to building a great site to network with others and working on my first blog!

Hart Mortgage Services - you can do it!!  :-)

Scott - congrats on your first Blog.  If you need any help with it, just let me know.  I wish you all the best here on ActiveRain and with all your 2009 Business and personal endeavors.

Brad, i started a group called realtors in montgomery and bucks could. it was deleted. can you give me some reasons. thanks

Rafeeq - we don't delete groups.  Only the founder of the group can do this.  I'll have to research this one a bit further, but something doesn't sound right.

Rafeeq - your group was not deleted, but nothing has been posted to it and you are the only member.  Here is a link to your group.  http://activerain.com/groups/montgomeryandbucks

You'll also find a link to it on the left hand side of your "My Home" page under GROUPS.  Maybe you were just looking in the wrong spot.  :-)

Your post 'Realtors in Montgomery and Bucks county, please join this Group' has been removed from the group 'montgomeryandbucks' by an administrator or moderator.

You should either review the guidelines for the group or contact this person if you have any questions.

Brad, i got this email. there were two comments which were also delated. i will find the comments and respond. please advise

Brad, Here are the two comments. sorry for bothering you

2 Comments on Realtors in Montgomery and Bucks county, please join this Group

Rafeeq - just send Linda and any others that want to join your group to the link provided here, it goes to your group, it wasn't deleted.

http://activerain.com/groups/montgomeryandbucks  This is also the URL to your group.

There is also a link to it on your ActiveRain profile.  There's 2 ways you can send folks to see your group.  The search engines probably won't pick up the group just yet as there is no content or members.  As they join and contribute, you'll be able to search groups for "realtors in montgomery and bucks county" and people can then find it yet a 3rd way.

That should help. Thanks.  :-)

Thanks Brad ::)) -

This is a great process that I look forward to hopefully take full advantage of.

Alan - take full advantage of it and benefit greatly!!  I wish you all the best here in the rain.  :-)

Rafeeq - you are more than welcome. 

Brad..

These entries you have are very helpful. I am starting out in the blogging world and you have made it easier. Knowing how to achieve a goal such as being a "Featured Member" makes getting there that much better. Thanks.

Brad,

Thanks for this wonderful post! I was wondering about the points and ,now that I've printed out this blog, I have a clear understanding of AR's POINT system!

Thanks,

Kathy Opatka, Re/Max Premier Properties, Ocean City, Maryland

Thanks for all the information you provide....I'd be lost without this post and all the others in the newbie section!

Hi Brad!  I was looking for point information for a new blogger and boy, did I find a great post!  Thanks for this.  I know the points are a bit different now but, not by much.

Enjoy Inman!  I'm looking forward to your posts about all you learn there!

Thanks for all of the great tips! I'm completely new at this so I need all the help I can get!! :)

Thank you for a great outline of the points system. I finally know why my points keep going up!

Thanks for the info, I am new and was wondering how to be a featured Realtor.  I think the point system is fun.

Thanks for the info, I have been getting points and now I know why!  New to AR and loving it

Casa - welcome aboard and good luck to you here, let me know if you need any assistance. :-)

Kathy - thanks.  Points are great, fun and competitive, but it's the value and content that you contribute to the community that gets you friends, readers, and business.  :-)

Lisa - I'm glad these are useful for you, the newbies group is an awesome place to be, I still learn stuff from there.

Debe - I learned a lot at Inman, and wish I had the time to post all about it, but I'll have to do things in increments and as time permits.  Always great to see and have your comments!  :-)

Candace - here to help if you ever need.  :-)

Kent - rock on my friend.

Wanda -  the more you participate and contribute, the more up and up they'll go.  :-)))

Jessica - funner than the points are the friendships and relationships you'll build here.  There are no words that can describe what happens to you after your here for awhile.  There are some of the most awesome wonderful people you will ever meet here.  :-)

Ken - gotta love when you're scoring points in this industry and you don't know why!!   :-))

Thanks!  I am so grateful for the integrity constantly demonstrated and the genuine helpfulness of the Active Rain Starter Kit posts!

Wow, this is a great breakdown of the point system on Active Rain.  Thanks for posting this.  I am looking forward to boosting my points total.  Here's a point for you and some points for me. :)

As a newbie to Active Rain, I thank you for your blog.  This has been very helpful and insightful.  I appreciate it.

Great post! The information in the starter kit was exactly what i needed to get me going. thanks.

WOW! Great information. You cleared up alot of points that I was not sure about and congratulations on the amount of people that have read and responded to your terific post!

As a new member, I thank you for the free information abou the points system

Thank you for the explanations- I had received some opints I didn't expect, and then didn't receive some when I had, and didn't know why in either case.  I think I have a little better understanding now.

Thank you for this concise explanation of the ActiveRain points system.  I look forward to becoming a featured member in my area.

Looks like i need to get reading and blogging! Thanks for the info!

Thank you, thank you, thank you.  You've been very helpful!

Brad, thanks for the info on blogging..I have been at it for two months now and I am learning something new everyday..I have worked my way up from last place to the bottom of the first page in Kentucky and keep blogging and reading and commenting daily for points, knowledge and fun

Thank you for the information.  Although I have just started this venture and a little leary, I am willing to work hard and make myself more marketable.

Thanks for placing this post up for us beginners. I'm on my way to the top!!

Hi there - i am very new to blogging.  I receive a google alert e-mail every day on the newest blogs about "for sale by owner" and "flat fee MLS" but when i did my blog - it didn't show up in the alert - any suggestions what i did wrong?  Thanks deb

Debbie - google alerts can take a while to report back.  I know that when I post on AR, the google alert usually comes back within a day or so.  Keep your eye on it, it should be coming.  :-)

Wow - thanks for the quick response.  Very Impressive site.   It's been two days since my post (02/15/09) - i guess I just have to learn to be patient - I signed up with active rain about 6 months ago and did my first blog - and now i am just getting around to really trying to figure out what i am doing - i then posted another blog on 02/15 - so i am assuming if i read it correctly - i am a free member and receive all benefits.

How do you become a 'Top Neighbor'?  I have been blogging and making my way up the chain and am now in the top in my featured spot for my area, but I cannot seem to make a dent in the Top Neighbor even though the two agents up there have not blogged at all since December?  I have been checking the box and adding relative blogs to localism, but still nothing?  Any suggestions?

Debbie - you are in.  That was a close call though...   :-)) 

Bruce and Sandy - Top Neighbor spots are based on content and contributions to those particular areas on Localism.  We are working on Localism and making many corrections and adjustments as part of our next big project so just keep plugging away.  :-))

Brad, you are incredible!  How do you do it?  Thanks for the outstanding information.

I have a question -- why, when I comment on someone else's blog (like this one), does my photo not appear with the post?  My profile is in tact with photo added, but it's not appearing on my posts.  Please help me!

Thanks so much.  Starting today, I vow to create 1 post per day and comment on 10 others each day. 

Patsy - once you have 10,000 points or a rainmaker membership, your photo will show up when you leave comments on others posts.  Keep on Blogging in the rain.  :-)

Brad,  This is a great help and the last post from Patsy is what I've been wondering about all day.  I thought I had set up my profile incorrectly all this time.  I'm so glad for people like you that are willing to help us all out.  Thanks so much. 

I have another question.  You refer to Localism in your answer to Bruce & Sandy.  When I clicked on that it wanted me to sponsor a city in my area.  Is that what you have to do in order to be part of localism.  How does the public access it?

Thanks Brad for those good ideas.  (I won't use the p word again in this post)  Its going to take a few more entries to push me up to the 10000 level.  There is only so much time in the day and one does have to keep the business going in order to stay healthy. 

I don't mind having patience if only they came faster. ;)  Meanwhile, I keep building good content as much as possible.  In St. John's, Newfoundland, I am climbing the ladder but others have had a big head start.  Perhaps Active Rain could award bonus points for frequency of posting to help a fellow blogger gain a bit of ground.

Greg    

Meg - You do not need to sponsor a community on Localism to be a part of it.  Your profile on Localism allows you to post from AR to Localism and to specific communities and neighborhoods you're writing about.  The public can access it by just going to Localism.com or by doing a geographic search and having Localism posts come up.  We are also working on some major changes and upgrades to Localism in the days ahead. :-)

I wonder what are some of the secret areas for additional points?

So it took me long enough but I finally went searching for this info today.  I guess you could say I'm a blogging baby and a little slow.  I usually catch on to things pretty quickly so I am not sure what my problem is.  I am happy to say that after being a member since 10/27/07 I think I may actually be getting the hang of this.....and now I finally know how this whole point system works.  (Here's my sign "L")

I have been reviewing my site recentl and there have been so many changes to AR in the past few months. . . It is hard to keep up.  I felt I needed to go back and review the rules - I am glad your guide was here.  Thanks!

Nyles - thanks for the comment, made me come back and review it again too. lol~

Funny thing is, I wrote this nearly a year ago, and the biggest change is that now there are 100,000 more members here.  :-)

Thank you for the point system information. I dare say that I will never make it into the top ten, but I'm just happy tobe here and to have the opportunity to learn and share.

Very helpful Brad.  Thanks for all the help getting started on AR.

Good job summarizing all that is Active Rain. Ironically, I just touched on many of these points in my last post. I used my 300,000 point milestone as a reason to explain the Active Rain "puzzle" and my journey =)

You mention that we can get points for promoting AR.  Who do we tell?  I have put articles in our local paper and then reference my blog with Active Rain.  I also have a link on my website.  I don't know if these would count or not. 

Meg - just let any of the staff know about what and where you're promoting the site, you can find us all at the "about" link at the bottom of every ActiveRain page.  We use to give points for links, but not anymore. If you write in your local paper, or on another Blog somewhere, just let us know, send a link etc.  If you write about AR in your local paper, just send me a copy and I'll see that you get some extra points for sure!  Thanks.  :-)

Very helpful information and well put together. This well definitely help me get started...

This was very helpful. I feel like such a novice. I will visit this post often.  Thanks for the information!

Whoohoo...can't wait to get started...this looks like fun!

Whoohoo...can't wait to get started...this looks like fun!

Morning Brad - The voice of reason has spoken......again!!!!! Great Blog and I am sure it will help someone who may be lost.

Cheers

Thank you. I joined sometime back, then, well that was that. Now I am back trying to learn. I spent hours last night trying to figure out what points meant. HA! I am gonna try and give the blogging a whirl! I am heading for the top of the list. Wish me luck, and thanks again!

Thanks Brad. Man, I'm glad I read this post/info/page/blog. I'm not even sure what it's called, but I am going to make every effort to learn all the blogging jargon. For me this info is motivating, I'm now shooting for the top spot in the GTA. I'll be racking up 'em points fast, so you guys up there better watch out, here I come!

Hi Brad,

Just wondering- I notice my picture doesn't show up in replies I make to others posts.  Is this points-related?

Jim - Yes.  10,000 pts or a "rainmaker upgrade" gets you your photo in the comments section of others posts.  Just keep pluggin away, or upgrade, and your photo will appear.  :-)

Thanks for the good info:D

  New to ActiveRain but looking forward to checking it out!

Thanks for the good info:D

  New to ActiveRain but looking forward to checking it out!

This is great info. Thank you for taking the time to share with others.

Sherry - Living, Learning, and Sharing, isn't that what life's all about???  It sure is on AR.  Thanks for "sharing" your nice comment!  :-)

Brad,

Great idea using the point system to help us better understand the importance of blogging to grow our business.  What a great way to make it fun.

Thanks Wendy - glad you see the value of Blogging for your business, and not just the points.  They do make it fun though...   :-)

I'm jealous. I stumbled on this post and don't remember how. I didn't get this fantastic tutuorial when I joined. New members don't know how easy they have it.

Karen - you have no idea how much truth there is to that statement.  Thanks for your comment, those are just as appreciated as they were in the beginning.  Really, thank you.  :-)

Brad,

As a newcomer to ActiveRain, as well as to the industry, I really appreciate the tips in your blog.  I will be sure to incorporate your suggestions into my daily routine.

Matt.

Thanks for the information. I appreciate the help for newcomers like me.

Joyce

Hi Brad,

Thanks for your time on the phone yesterday.  I'll take your advice to heart and go through all the great tips and training materials you've posted.  There are so many good ideas, I'm eager to get started. 

Karen

Karen - It was my pleasure, just remember what I said, there is a lot to learn about here, but don't let it frustrate you.  One day and one item at a time, and in no time at all, you'll be a resident expert.  :-))

Great tips, ....I'm starting to understand how it all works! At the same i'm having fun and meeting new people.

Thanks, Jess Graves

You're exactly right, quality is king!  This is a great community and I would love to do what I can to help everyone become a better consultant for their clients as long as I can make myself a better consultant through everyone elses knowledge as well.

"Positive actions breed positive results." -unknown author

B.G - possibly one of the best comments ever, thanks! Being a good learner makes us good teachers and being a good teacher helps those who wish to learn.  Everybody wins!  :-)

Nice post.  You really summarized it well.  I wish I had this spelled out so clearly when I was first starting out ;)

Brad, another very useful post for newer members.  Thanks.

Thanks for the info.  Now I understand the point system and why it is place.  Great idea!!

Thanks for all the great tips here.

I can't seem to get my head around posting a comment just for points.  I read so many, but post to so few.

You are brilliant, Brad.  Showing just how many points you can get by posting a blog about getting points.  Amazingly creative.

By the way, why didn't my picture show up next to my post? 

By the way, why didn't my picture show up next to my post? 

As a new member, this is very helpful in getting started.

I want points!

www.whiteinkstudio.com

Brad,

 I still refer back to this from time to time! Sometimes I find things I didn't understand before, or something I missed all together!

Judy

Thanks for the info it was very helpful.  I think we all would like to have this be very beneficial.  I appreciate your help....

This is new to me and I appreciate the "how to" help! You are very clear and easy to understand. Thanks! Leslie Helm, Realty One Group, Jamestown, Tennessee.

Thanks. I quess I have to blog.

Thanks for the info, as a newbe, I am overwhelmed as to how much there is to learn.

Robert - just take one day and one step at a time, it will all come together quicker than you may think. 

The worst thing you could do is get overwhelmed and walk away joining the hundreds of others who get frustrated only to return in the days ahead realizing how much power and value there is here on AR. Don't let your competiton be the ones to make you decide how beneficial and useful this tool is for your business.

Let me know if I can assist you with anything at all.  :-))

Very helpful.  It all comes down to points.  Blogging and referrals are easy ways to rack up the points. 

Nicholas - actually it all comes down to Blogging gets you referrals and business, the points are just the bi-product of your efforts here.
Remember that points will never get you a deal or build a relationship, they can't be cashed in or exchanged for commodities, nor will they get you referrals or phone calls.  The focus on ActiveRain should be consistency with posting great content that will get you found in the search engines and provide valuable information to your intended audience.  I hope you get the "point" here.  (Big Smile) :-))

I just wish I had joined when the photo points were still going...but I guess the "picture is worth a thousand words" idea isn't really accurate in practice- it seems like the current set up works well to keep content useful.  I can see how pics for points could spin out of control.

Dan

Great post! Thanks for the points.

I have had an account with Active Rain for a while now and just started working it.  Your tips and information were very helpful.  Thank You

   ~Captain Wayne Rowlett

Brad: good one and I agree with you. Buyers are not that interested in points but boy it would be cool to get both at the same time.

Lloyd - keep blogging great content on AR, and you WILL get both at the same time.  :-))

Hi Brad, I found many good posts from you which helps more... Keep posting... Good Job.

Best of Luck and Success

Great post. Now the point system makes sense.

Is there a way to put comments on a separate page because I'm trying to go through the guide "How To Get Started on ActiveRain" and each page takes a about 3-5 minutes to load from all the comments?

This is really great Brad. Since joining Active Rain I have enjoyed reading many of the blogs posted by the real estate agents , and other professionals. I know I have my work cut out for me, so I am going to dive right in. Thanks for the great insights & tips.

Eric middleton

Closer Look Property Inspections Inc.

Hello Brad..I finally made it to comments and forgot I wasn't logged in - Yikes! I am new to ActiveRain and I have to say I think this is one of the best things since Microsoft went public. I've been in the business for over 20+ years. The best experience you can get in real estate is from other successful agents and on the job training.  This platform gives you both.  Can wait to share and learn what I can from others. We all have our work cut out for us (now that I understand the point system) and I welcome the challenge.  

I'm new to active Rain from today and I have to say I'm excited with the possibilities that are available.

I believe I will benefit greatly through these conversations I will have with my fellow realtors and hopefully I will be able to contribute too...

Martin

Martin - AWESOME!!  Congrats on being a RainMaker here.   "Exciting" and "Possibilities" are pretty much all you'll find here, but if you don't, let me know, our entire team is here to help.  Welcome aboard!  :-)

This is great information.  I have been doing most of this without even looking at how I gain point. 

Allen - it's great to know that you are already engaging and having activity without only worrying about points. The points will come, but the business and relationships will always far outweight the points. Always!  :-)

Im working on it. just started and up to about 5,000 points I hope to be top in my area soon.

Good to know!  I just signed up with Active Rain and I'm very excited to start blogging and start reading others' blogs!  I honestly think this is the coolest and easiest site to navigate (thanks to your posts Brad)!  I guess I'll be working all evening to update my profile :)

This has been an interesting experience for me, I do enjoy blogging but I'm much more interested in what others have to share. 

Trent Dalrymple

PrivateMoneyMi.com

Very nice blog. I agree with Trent, I find it interesting to learn what others are sharing in Active Rain.

Point taken!

OK bloggersphere ...here I come!

Glad I found this post! Interesting stuff, plus, I've never seen a post with this much action! Whoo-hoo! Over 600 comments at this writing. Whoa!

Hi Marianne - glad you found it too, and more importantly, glad you waited around for the time it took to load with all these comments. LOL~

wow, I remember when I had 237 points.  Those were the days! Now I want 500,000 points!  I have a loooong journey!  LOL

- Nelson

Ok, Brad, what was really amazing was waiting a second time to come back and read your response. NP. Glad I did!

Is there a guide to how many points you shoudl have after:

1 Day

1 Week

1 Month

3 Months

6 Months

1 Year

In order to make sure you are on track to be successful on Active Rain?

Don - this might help...

http://activerain.com/blogsview/1312203/the-activerain-point-system

I'm most interested in contributing to the Localism part of Activerain.  There's very few real estate agents in my part of the country (NE Texas) that are using this valuable tool.  I've been talking about the site to some of my Century 21 coworkers, but they all seem overwhelmed with the internet tools they already are using.  Their loss.  I'll keep trying to make some converts!

Ooh, I did not think I was going to find the section to post comments.  Too many excited folks ready to comment on the usefulness of this link.  It was helpful because I had just found out about Active Rain and wanted to dive in head first.  Thanks for the tips!

I didn't think I would find the comments section.  There are so many users that have found this link useful.  I didn't know much about Active Rain and this link definitely opened my eyes to all that I would need to do to make this most effective for me.  Thanks for the tips!

Finally I've made it to Active Rain after hearing others talk about it for some time.  I'm starting to see what all the talk has been about.  Points are great, but leads are what's important.

Condo Joe, Austin, TX

Joe - yes, points are great, but if you're looking for a place to connect with other industry pros, build referral business, get SEO from your Blogging content, utilize IDX for generating leads, have an outside Blog that dominates your Hyper-Local market, plus learn more in one place from a library of resources and experienced industry pros like no other, then you are DEFINITELY in the right place.  Getting points in the process is more of an online currency that helps motivate members to do all the above.  Great to have you here in the "Rain!"  :-)

Thanks for the great tips! As always, a great blog.  Thanks again.

I'm lucky as my area isn't full of AR bloggers so 1 week into being a rainmaker I'm featured. What does that mean...TBD.

I am here to learn, help where I can and meet some new people. Oh, and the power of the blogs is helping my listing count as well. 3 today and 1 tomorrow! AR is awesome!

Kyle - congrats and welcome aboard!! You're going to love it here.  Featured posts are not easy come by, that means one of our staff liked your post and placed it on the main AR page. That's awesome!!  :-)

I appreciate all your blogs. Thanks. I just learned from one of your other blogs that by commenting, I encourage Google juice. Didn't know that. Thanks!

I'm working my way up in the points arena and writing only quality blogs to hopefully be featured soon! Thanks for sharing the tips!

That was really Helpful. Tons of Thanks.... :)

Thanks for all the tips this wa a great post!

Great post - thanks for the tips!

I have found that even during busy times I can get to AR a few days a week and my point total rises significantly. Plus the blogs (like this one) are always helpful.

Well now I know a bit more about what it is to be featured.  I was awarded a yellow star today, at least it's by my post, and it's on my point summary, but I don't have one under my photo like others' do so I wasn't sure.  I feel just like a little girl in school getting a good grade on my paper!  Thanks for the flashback!

Good info for a newbie like myself. I finally bit the bullet and decided to join Active Rain after talking with others about the usefulness of this site.  I understand that to get the most out of this site, you have to put time into it....here we go!

Hey Brad this is a great post for all those new to the community and a great reminder  to those who continue to blog

I am a newbie. I have clicked on the localism link on my home page but evidently I did not "get it". So.. thanks to your blog, I will check it out again. I have lots of beautiful pictures of the area. Blessings!

Thanks again for another great post, that will help me get to the next level.

Thanks again for another great post, that will help me get to the next level.

Thanks again for another great post, that will help me get to the next level.