You’re clearly here because you care about your Facebook friends. You want to listen, learn from, help and contribute! I like you already! So brush up on your Facebook “best practices” and make these 5 resolutions to improve your Facebook engagement (if you haven’t already).

(1)   No more whining about the timeline…just accept it already. We all know Facebook makes changes, so get used to them.  HOW we share will always evolve…but WHAT we share is specific to who we are. It’s time to take responsibility for the communication tool we find so helpful…and so fun!

(2)   Stop sharing images with words on them…especially when they’ve been shared 14 other times in your network already. Instead, use the status bar and text, or your own photos to illustrate your thoughts, comical ideas, or motivational phrases.

(3)   Don’t encourage bad behavior. If you don’t like how someone continually asks for “likes” then don’t like the post already. If you think its lame when people ask really cheesy questions…then don’t eat the brie. But remember you are on Facebook to be social, right?! So own your interactions…and engage in a way that feels comfortable to you.

(4)   Stop overposting!!! You know who you are. And we are tired of your 15 posts a day. It’s annoying…if we want to see you that much we’ll call you and meet for coffee. Blocking and unfriending happens.

(5)   Be original. Be who you are…nothing more, nothing less.  Share what you are truly passionate about when it comes to work, to family, to kids, to life. Know that most of us enjoy a balance of posts that reflect your interests and yes, your professional life too. BUT rather than offering up self-serving quotations from Brainy Smurf….really…I mean, REALLY…think about how you can help others in the New Year.  And stop trying to make everyone happy…you can’t. Focus on your niche expertise.

MyTechOpinion: Pause before you post. (I did, really.) But once you commit…be ready to ROCK it!

Introducing Social WordPress Plug-In

Social is a new WordPress Plugin that’s bringing comments back! Social is designed to aggregate the conversation happening on your blog posts with the conversation happening in networks like Twitter and Facebook. Not only that, but it brings new meaning to the hub and spoke approach to social media marketing. Let’s take a look at how social works.

A little background to the Social Plug-In setup

Social is compatible with both single author and multi-author blogs. At the time of setup each author will visit their profile and link up their Facebook and Twitter accounts. Then similarly, visit the Settings area of Social and add your Facebook and Twitter account there too. You’ll also be asked for a Twitter Consumer key, which is really simple to setup. For that, go here and login with your Twitter account and complete the application details and agree to the terms. Twitter then will return OAuth settings; in those settings you’ll now have the consumer key.

While in settings, you can also build a standard message to be shared to Twitter and Facebook using the following tokens:

• {url}: Includes your post permalink
• {title}: Includes the post title
• {content}: Includes the post content
• {date}: Includes the post date
• {author}: Includes the post author name

Now that Social is setup, how does it work?

At the time of post creation you can set the “social broadcasting” rules—allowing you to turn on or off the automatic Facebook post or Tweet.

Once your newly created content has been published, Social will aggregate new comments via Twitter or Facebook automatically using built in cron job. You’ll see the newly found content is nicely integrated with your WordPress comments. See all comments in aggregate, or use the tabs to filter out comments, Tweets, Facebook mentions, and even pingbacks. If the published post has not received replies via Twitter and Facebook the continued aggregation for that post will stop.

MyTechOpinion

I’ve seen many different comment plug-ins come on the scene over the years. Some completely take over the native comments feature in WordPress and you loose control as a result. Social is different, you stay in control of your comments and get the added benefit of integrating the conversation of your content from other networks. I appreciate the clean layout and ability to filter out the channel that’s most interesting to you. Also really like the Twitter hover cards that appear as you hover over a users Twitter handle.

I’m also happy to report that the plugin creators have stated they are actively developing the ability for Facebook pages to connect via the plugin not just Facebook profiles. I’m also eager to hear when they’ll integrate Google+ into the mix.

So here it goes! If you have a WordPress site (particular those of you on the Genesis platform) and a Facebook Page in need of some serious love (aka content)….I’d like to introduce you to fbPressPage, from Agent Evolution! This is a WordPress and Genesis Framework specific add-on that brings your site content into your Facebook Page as a tab.

As a Facebook Page Admin, you’re faced with the challenge of trying to provide content (listings, community, neighborhood, market data, etc) on your Facebook Page, or searching for the right app that will attempt to do it for you. fbPressPage gives you the ability to customize your Facebook Page Tab with your WordPress content and features…and you can do it right from the WordPress Admin.

What EXACTLY does fbPressPage do?

Skies the limit! But when it comes to showcasing your real estate and local market expertise you can add the following to your fbPressPage: (1) IDX home search, (2) featured listings, (3) city or neighborhood specific content, (4) school info and scores, (5) market trend data, (6) contact forms, (7) recent blog posts, etc.

Let’s see how this looks in Facebook! Check out the “Real Estate” tab for facebook.com/TriValley365 in the gallery below. This tab highlights 5 cities in the Tri-Valley region, which also happen to be city specific pages created within WordPress. Notice the tab offers home search powered by Diverse Solutions. The Simple Real Estate Pack (also a plugin) provides school data from Education.com, as well as market trend graphs from Trulia.

What’s the benefit of fbPressPage?

fbPressPage utilizes the functionality of your WordPress site to better optimize your Facebook Tabs. So the valuable features and content you have on your WP site can be widgetized into an individual tab that loads right into your Facebook Page.

If you have IDX home search on your site, with fbPressPage, you now have that functionality inside Facebook. View featured listings and search for homes in particular markets. Got neighborhood pages or market stats on your site, make them twice as useful. Add a contact form or other calls to action. Or maybe you’re a content creator? Feature your blog posts along with improved sharing via Facebook and Twitter.

Another key benefit of using fbPressPage is that it can fangate your Facebook Page content. So when someone lands on your Facebook Page the content on your custom tab will be semi-visible (grayed out). A pop-up box will appear asking users to “Like” your page in order to gain access to your custom content and features. <coming in version 1.1> And if you’re an early adopter, don’t worry…we can add it in for you with the new release!

fbPressPage can also clean up your Facebook Page clutter. Too many inefficient apps can distract your audience and make your brand and messaging unclear. Rock your own content, simplify your calls to action and make it easy for your connections to get the info they’re looking for.

Learn more about fbPressPage

This is a premium WordPress add-on. A site license can be purchased for a one-time set-up fee of $199. Visit fbPressPage.com to learn more or make a request!

Prerequisites: You need to have a site built with WordPress.org and the Genesis Framework. Not on Genesis? We can build or move your site to Genesis, as well as hook you up with fbPressPage for Facebook.

MyTechOpinion

Now clearly I’m a fan of fbPressPage for the reasons mentioned above.  But simply put,  it’s just one more reason to ROCK WordPress and Facebook…a powerful marketing combination!

On February 10, 2011 Facebook announced page admins could start using iFrames as page tabs, displaying a maximum of 8 tabs at any one time. To see more than the default 8 tabs, users need to click “More” below the last tab to reveal anything hidden. Facebook also announced they were going to deprecate FBML and FBJS as the primary technologies for building Facebook apps. As of March 11, 2011, Facebook users will no longer be able to create new FBML apps and pages will no longer be able to add the Static FBML app.

So what does this mean for my Facebook Page Tab?

The future of Facebook Tabs looks to be centered on iFramed content, which leads me to the main reason for my post today.  Adding iFramed content isn’t difficult, but it does require a different set of steps to install compared to its Static FBML counterpart.  Let’s take a look.

Step 1: Create or identify the page to be iFramed into Facebook

For my example, I’ll show you a Streaming Video page I created for RPR. It’s pretty basic, just a .php file that includes live video streaming embed code from Ustream mashed with Facebook’s Live Chat. The Live Chat component will allow the viewers in Facebook to share their thoughts about what their watching, also posting a comment back to their wall. Of course this is just one example of what you could build, but using these steps you can bring just about any content into Facebook. It could be a custom neighborhood page, listings page, newsletter sign up, videos, anything you desire. Also because we’ll be creating an app, your page tab could even be installed by other pages if you would like. Just keep in mind for things to look good, your content should be no wider that 520px…we don’t want anyone to side-scroll.

If you would like to use my example and build a Ustream app in Facebook, download the source files here. You’ll need to update the uStream embed code with your own channels embed code. You’ll also need to add your APP ID to the Facebook Live Stream code. You’ll see I’ve documented the spots you’ll need to edit.

Step 2: Creating a Facebook Application

The first thing we’ll need when creating a Facebook app is to make sure we’ve already installed the Developer App. It’s used to manage the applications that you build in Facebook. If you haven’t already installed it, please do so now.  You’ll see something like the screenshot below. Choose “Allow.”

Once you’ve installed the Developer App, we’re ready to start creating the new application that will pass our iFramed content into a page tab.

Select the button titled Set up new app on the right side of the page.

Now enter a friendly name for your app and agree to Facebook’s Terms of Use.

About – Basic Information

Now we can start editing the important details of the app. You’ll arrive on the About tab, with the focus on “Basic Information”. Enter the name of your application, a brief description, the icon and logo. The icon will be used like a favicon on your Facebook Tab.

Moving down the page, confirm the correct email address is listed. Add any other admins, testers, or users to the application. Now we can move on to the Facebook Integration tab.

Facebook Integration

Canvas Page: Look for the Canvas section. Start by creating what is essentially a vanity URL for your application. This is the URL that someone will type to access the app directly. It’s also the URL you’ll access when you’re ready to add the application as a tab to your page.

Canvas URL: Now you’ll enter the URL of the page that you are framing into Facebook. Keep in mind the URL must either be dynamic or point to a directory. (HINT: Create a directory and make the .html or .php filed named index.)

Canvas Type: Select “IFrame”

iFrame Size: By default the tab will have a width of 520px; and a height limit of 800px. If your iFramed page exceeds those dimensions it will result in scroll bars being shown. Although if you do need more height, or would like to auto-select height based on your iFramed content, there is a simple workaround. For that, you’ll need to choose Auto-Resize (Note: Auto-Resize will require a few additional steps included below. It’s also important to note that I’m not using the Auto-Size option for my example app.)

Social Discovery: If social discovery is enabled, Facebook will display a user’s usage of your app in News Feed.

Tab Name: Enter the name you would like to see as a page tab. (Note: This can be overridden from the page itself.) Maximum of 16 characters.

Page Tab Type: Select iFrame

Tab URL: The page Facebook will use to pull content for your tab; which is relative to your Canvas Page. In my example it was index.php

If you selected “Auto-Resize” follow these steps, otherwise skip to Step 3 below.

The idea behind Auto-Size is that your application tells the canvas what size it should adjust to. To set this up properly we’ll need to initialize the JavaScript Library from our iFrame source page. This is done by adding the following code before your closing </body> tag. You need to replace YOUR-APP-ID with the ID of your newly created app. (Hint: You can find your app ID in the Core Settings of your newly created app.)

Next we’ll use FB.Canvas.setSize() to auto detect the height of your iFrame. Add this bit of code just before your </head> tag. (Note: If you would like to set a fixed size, see here. Or if you’re content size changes dynamically, try using FB.Canvas.setAutoResize. Be warned, I’ve seen a few bugs submitted to Facebook on this function.)

Step 3: Add Your New App as a Facebook Tab

Now visit the application profile page, which can be found by visiting the Canvas Page. This is the URL we created a few steps back on the Facebook Integration Tab.

Click Add To My Page. Facebook will display a dialog with all of the Pages you administer. Now select Add to Page to the right of the page you want your new tab to display on.

Now visit your page, and choose Edit Page. Select Apps and look for our newly added application and click Edit Settings and confirm your custom tabs display name. Now click okay.

Here is an example of what our page would look like with this app installed…

1. NEW! Page Owners

If you’ve taken the tour and upgraded to the new Facebook Page layout, consider featuring “Page Owners” on the left sidebar. This is particularly important for those of you that have multiple admins contributing to the Page.  Perhaps your team has a page focused on the real estate market you live and work in, or maybe you’re a broker with a brand focused page.  In either case, adding Page Owners personalizes the page a bit more and provides LIKERS with the faces and names behind the relevant content being shared.

HOW-TO: Go to “edit info” on the top of your page, select “featured” from the left sidebar settings and edit your page owners. BONUS: Edit your featured likes to call attention to local business affiliates, other office locations, or resources.

2. NEW! Post as Yourself

Probably my most favorite new feature from the recent update, and one I’ve been whining about to Facebook for some time! You now have the ability to change your “post preference” for a Page that you’re an admin of. So instead of the Facebook Page image showing up when you post to your page, your own profile image can appear. Can I get a woohoo!? This new change is music to the ears of individual admins and multiple page admins because it not only alleviates confusion over who is actually posting to the Page but again improves the personalization of the Page. Pages can often seem like “relevant content silos” with streaming posts and no actual engagement taking place. Now that we can put a post to a name I’m confident more actual commenting will take place. <fingers crossed>

HOW-TO: Go to “edit info” on the top of your page, select “your settings” and un-check the “post preferences” box.

3. Create Lists

Do you find that you’re always talking to the same 5 people every time you login to Facebook? If you are, then you’re probably not making the most of Facebook as a business tool for staying top of mind with your sphere. Now, don’t get me wrong…those 5 people may be important folks in your Web of connectivity and may rock referrals your way. But what if your 5 were 10, or 50?! Don’t let Facebook’s Edgerank keep you focused on just a few key targets. Expand your reach and conversations to stay top of mind with a variety of people in your sphere. To do this, you need to segment your friends into lists which makes it much easier to engage in a more relevant way than saying “thanks for sharing”.

HOW-TO: Go to “edit friends” in the dropdown menu on the right side. Select the “create list” button up top and segment your friends by geographic location, demographic or other target characteristics.

4. Filtering the Newsfeed

When you want to find out what’s going on in your network you can easily turn to the Facebook Newsfeed. The Newsfeed has 2 options: Top News & Most Recent. It’s tempting to hang out in Top News where supposedly all the action is…or most interacted with posts. And you will see all the usual suspects there…people that have mastered the art of being social and sharing relevant content…which IS valuable and fun. But what about all those folks in your network that are equally if not more important to connect with on a regular basis? This is where Facebook Lists play an important role. When you view the Most Recent option in the Newsfeed you can filter what’s being posted by the lists you’ve created. So instead of seeing Top News from the usual suspects, you see the people you want to stay top of mind with.

HOW-TO: Create lists (see tip #3), then utilize the dropdown menu in the Most Recent Newsfeed to filter and engage with targets. Not only will you be able to easily see what your network is sharing, you can learn more about what your sphere needs and wants. Challenge: Pick a list every day and comment on at least 3 posts made by others.

5. Daily Engagement Plan

If you’ve heard enough hype about Facebook as a business tool and are ready to make good use of your time and this fabulous network….it’s time for a Daily Engagement Plan. Set 20-30 minutes aside in the AM or PM to take care of the following marketing tasks:  (1) update your status, (2) post a relevant share to your Page (if you have one), (3) filter the Newsfeed and comment on 3 posts made by others, (4) post or send birthday wishes to those in your network celebrating, (5) check and respond to messages, (6) invite or accept new friends.

MyTechOpinion

Although these features can help improve the ebb and flow of your conversations in Facebook, the best tip I can honestly give you is to engage consistently with a balanced diet of YOU (personality, passion, profession)! Carry on!

Nearly every time I teach a Facebook class to real estate professionals there is usually one agent who asks (right from the beginning), “How do I post my listings to my wall or tab?” And my reply is most often not the answer, but a question, “If you’re a consumer do you start your search for a home inside Facebook?” (Usual reply: “uh no”) Yep…that’s what I thought.

So then, why do we continue to see the Facebook Newsfeed and Walls of real estate professionals cluttered with sales pitches for their current listings? And don’t tell me it’s just the Facebook newbies? There are plenty of seasoned super tech-agents still posting “Beautiful 3 bedroom, 3 bath home in a quiet neighborhood, XYZ…call me today for more details or visit 123listing.com” on their personal profiles. Yes, on their Facebook profiles.

First, let’s remind our “salesfriends” of the basics. If you’re not already familiar with Facebook’s Terms of Service then you should know that it’s against their policy to use your Facebook Profile for commercial gain. If you want to post your listings, then do it from a Facebook Business Page. Which brings me to my next point. If you only post listings on your Facebook Page, do you REALLY think that’s going to be enough to keep folks interested or engaged (or “liking” your page)? Moreover, do you REALLY think the consumer is going to say to herself, “Today is the day, I’m ready to look for my dream home so of course I better start at Jenny Smith’s Pleasantville Real Estate page on Facebook!”

I know there’s a chance that someone in your network who’s looking to buy may be online at the moment you post that listing to your Facebook Page Wall, and may even see it in the Newsfeed. And it could be a match made in heaven (or Facebook)…it’s possible. But if that’s your strategy…go ahead, throw that dart and see where it lands.

Now let’s examine what happens when you only post listings on Twitter:

Yep, that sure gives me a reason to respond, follow you and converse.  When real twitter users encounter real estate listings like the example above, one word comes to mind…starts with an “s”…spammer! So you may as well sew a big “s” on your sweater because you’ll be permanently marked that way until you change your ways.

Enough is Enough

It’s time to raise the bar and use the tools the way they’re meant to be utilized.  So if you’re investing your time and effort in Facebook, Twitter and other online communication channels, remember to obey the “nature of the network”.  I’m not saying you can’t or shouldn’t post your listings altogether.  In fact, go for it. But don’t expect real “engagement” to take place unless you put in some real “effort” to make what you share actually “of interest”. So here are a few strategies you may want to try:

(1) Facebook – Listing Feature Post: Share your listing on your Facebook Page but instead of just regurgitating listing details (like 3 BED, 3 BATH, PRICED REDUCED), why not focus on what makes this home special. Highlight a feature of the home (unique yard, new kitchen, awesome view) or better yet the surrounding neighborhood or community. Give us a peek into the lifestyle…give us a reason to want to learn more, a reason to actually comment.

When you broadcast listing details the only engagement you’ll most likely yield are a couple of “likes”…and that’s usually someone who likes you, not your “NEW LISTING”. Those “likes” are not going to give you enough “FB Edge” to rank well in the Newsfeed…which means you’re counting on your targets visiting your Facebook Page on a regular basis to see if you’ve posted their dream home (that they may or may not be planning to buy right now).  So instead think about creating conversation around an interesting element of your listing with text, a photo, or video…and then link to a landing page where people can choose to get more details. Thank you Nashville & Beyond for this ROCKIN’ example:

And another stellar example from @FloridaSunSales of how to accomplish sharing a “listing feature”, but on Twitter:

(2) Facebook – Social Listing Post: Rather than posting listing features, post HOW you’re getting down to business on any given day. Working with clients, prepping for a showing, waiting at an inspection, or better yet….share the interesting work related occurrences that pop up in your day! Just think about answering “What are you up to?” as if a friend were asking. Thank you Mizzle for this ROCKIN’ example:

(3)  Facebook – Proactive Listing Post: You see a house on Broker’s Tour and immediately think of a certain client, or a client who’s always looking for that “perfect forever home”. Ever considered taking a photo and posting it to the wall or sending it via message to that client. Well, that’s exactly what Shannon King and Heather Elias do for their clients. Not only is this proactive strategy helpful to the potential buyer….but think about all the other people that will notice your initiative! Clearly these ladies have the expertise to match their clients with the home and lifestyle they are looking for! That’s talent…that’s a local market expert! Thank you LocoMusings for this ROCKIN’ example:

(4) Facebook  - Custom Tabs: If you focus your Facebook Business Page on your local market area and aim to deliver relevant info that local consumers care about…well, BRAVO! I’ve seen many agents migrate from personally branded pages to geographic or niche focused pages…which is great! But don’t forget to highlight who’s delivering this helpful content…YOU! So consider adding a custom tab that showcases your expertise and any tools you may want to offer. Your tab can also welcome locals to your page and provide important calls to action: like my page, sign up for my newsletter, search for homes (on your site), etc. This way you can still provide all the relevant local content that keeps targets coming back for more, but also have a place where your LIKERS know to go for YOUR real estate expertise.

MyTechOpinion

At the end of the day, you need a plan of action for gaining listing exposure online. Which most likely starts by (1) optimizing your MLS listing details, (2) creating a landing page to feature the listing on your own online hub (Website/blog), and (3) syndicating your listing to places where consumers actually go to look for real estate (Trulia, Zillow, Realtor.com). When it comes to Facebook, Twitter and the like….you need to remember why you are there (i.e. cultivate relationships). And don’t forget the nature of the SOCIAL network you’re using!

Once upgraded I experienced the happy delight of a new vantage point…exactly the same high I get when rearranging furniture. Yes, I enjoy the familiar comfort of my living spaces, but it’s always refreshing and energizing to update the design and functionality in my home. Same goes for Facebook Profiles…really! So here’s what I like so far…and what might take some getting used to:

What I like:

• The photo stream at the top highlighting photos you were tagged in. There is clearly more of an emphasis on photos. Images are eye-catching and this new design provides more staying power for recent posts w/ photos….more opportunity for engagement.
• Main navigation is now located in the left sidebar vs. top tabs (which no longer exist). Profile navigation actually seems more intuitive to me, and mimics more of the design and feel of the home page.
• Your photos and videos are now merged. Access your photos link from the left side navigation and view all photos and videos you have shared or have been tagged in. You can view photos and videos separately or as a mashed feed down the page. Perhaps this new design will motivate those of you waiting to get started with video…to just do it already!
• One of my most favorite new features of this new profile is how “friends” are now displayed and organized. You can easily filter friends from your profile as opposed to just in the newsfeed. But  instead of filtering lists or groups of people you set, you filter via location, school, work, etc. This will definitely make engagement more fun and efficient from your own profile. Profile filtering will most likely become a new task on my Daily Engagement Plan.
• I like poking from my profile. Pokes are a better fit on the profile. This nonchalant form of engagement is kinda fun, it can be both an active and passive form of engagement to let others know you’re thinking of them….with a little nudge.

Might take some getting used to:

• I’m not a big fan of the new headline in replace of my own creative bio or description that formerly resided under my photo. This new headline pulls info from your profile information which can be customized to include your work, education, relationship, birthday, location, etc. Is this Facebook’s attempt to keep things “simple and easy”, showcase your “background” and put more emphasis on interactions over cleverly crafted identity statements?! You tell me?! But I really think I should have the option to create my own headline, bio, or statement.
• My Facebook Business Page gets the boot! Well, at least as a direct link from my sidebar. If you want your Facebook Page linkable from your main profile (i.e. the headline up top) then you have to add it to your work history. Which is still lacking a bit in functionality since some of us may have different company and community focused pages. Clearly this is still a work in progress for FB. Just be sure your Pages are listed in your contact info and work info for maximum visibility.
• Updating your Info links. These are the links associated with your work history, likes and interests, education, etc. Currently many of these links take you to Community Pages which usually just aggregate keyword content and posts referencing the topic (good for search & monitoring). However, if you want your friends to be able to click these links and land on your actual Business Page, then you will have to reset them. This feature wasn’t working for me right away last night. I tried entering Agent Evolution and Reggie tried RPR several times but apparently we were experiencing a glitch. So just be sure to enter the text for a particular page EXACTLY as it reads on and shouldn’t have any issue.

MyTechOpinion:

Before you poo-poo the new profile and start your own “Let’s All Revolt Over the Facebook Redesign – Episode 82″….rearrange some furniture, take in the vantage point and then ready yourself to explore what’s new, secure your settings, and get social!

Apparently, Facebook users are also commitment phobes and “becoming a fan” equates to saying “I DO” in front of your entire online network! I can see their point, but then again, I usually jump in with both feet blindfolded to swim around and explore before coming up for air.

Anyway, at first glance you may think you can no longer send updates to fans….I mean friends….or “people”. But you can, you just have to edit your page. However, I’m guessing there are more changes to come since the term “fans” still remains in some areas on the editing dashboard. But I don’t think it will be long before Facebook eradicates that term completely!

Another interesting change associated with this update is that the interests you share on your Facebook Profile will be linked to similar interest based Pages. So for example, if you list “No Doubt” as one of your favorite bands in the music section of your profile, Facebook will suggest you join the No Doubt Facebook Page. Facebook explains their new focus in detail on it’s own blog here.

One not so noticeable feature you may have missed today is the ability to create a Facebook Ad for a particular status update. Friend and RE rockstar, Dustin Luther, explains the “Promote a Post” feature on his blog!

Now if you’ve been playing around inside Facebook and have a few thoughts, questions or comments….I hope you’ll share them with me here! And be sure to tell me, “How do you LIKE Facebook’s latest update?”

A new service called NutshellMail aims to be the Mr. Clean of your email inbox! With it, you can add all your social accounts, even other Webmail providers such as Yahoo, Gmail, and Hotmail. And instead of getting hit with a barrage of notifications you get one sleek email that gives you a daily rundown of social happenings from all your accounts!

I’ve been using NutshellMail for a couple of weeks now, and I find it to be a very useful way to consolidate all my email notifications. Which honestly reduces the distractions, stress, and organizational efforts I once dealt with.

So, exactly how does NutshellMail work?

Well, according to one of the founders, Mark Schmulen, it’s so easy to use…his grandma signed herself up and customized her account in 3 minutes! So to get started, visit NutshellMail to sign up for free. You will be prompted to add the accounts you maintain on the Web. In fact, there is really no limit to the number of accounts you can add.

When it comes to adding your Facebook account, you have several options to customize. You can set it up to receive general notifications for new friends, birthdays and events. But you can also add Fan Pages you wish to monitor more closely. You even focus on particular friends by creating a list of targets or influencers inside Facebook, and then add that list within the Nutshell Facebook account settings.

As for Twitter, you can modify the Nutshell settings to receive new followers, most recent DM’s, and the most recent tweets from your Twitter Lists. And what I think is pretty cool is the fact that I can accept new friends, reply and even retweet right from my email inbox. So basically, I have all the functionality of Twitter.com from my ONE daily NutshellMail!

Once you have added all your social profiles and email accounts, you can choose how often you want to get notified (days & times during the week). I’m a daily kind of gal…and I’ve also selected an AM and PM delivery! But 2 daily email notifications are far better than…well, I don’t want to tell you how many I was getting before…but it was more than 100!

MyTechOpinion

NutshellMail is a simple way to consolidate the notification craziness you may be experiencing in your inbox. From casual users to those of us that manage multiple profiles and accounts…you can turn off information overload, and turn on NutshellMail! Woohoo!

Well, as a real estate professional you can easily showcase your expertise and knowledge about your market area and industry trends. One of the ways I suggest doing this is by posting status updates that offer relevant info and/or tips your network would find helpful. Now some of you are already REALLY GOOD at sharing this type of info…and you might be so good at it that you decide to create a Fan Page to focus more intently on business.

Fan Pages are becoming more popular among real estate professionals for several reasons. Most importantly, it is more widely accepted (and preferred by Facebook) to utilize a Fan Page for promoting your business and sharing comprehensive listing data. NOTE: There are some people that truly ROCK the essence of Facebook and have mastered the art of the 3 P’s (personality, passion, profession) from their profile and don’t need to maintain the separation of church and state….or personal and professional. However, for many the draw of a Fan Page breaks down to the ability of sharing listing data, as well as relevant market data in a more appropriate fashion…with an opt-in network of interested folks.

Up until now adding real estate specific applications to a Fan Page has been, to say it nicely, less than effective. Many of the listing applications copy Website functionality and seem to have forgotten the nature of this network. Ideally, these applications need to offer more than just listing information but a way to provide interaction….or a rich data set of relevant information.

And that is why I was very excited to hear about  a new application for agents that launched this week! The Roost Social Real Estate Application is the first app of its kind to offer agents the opportunity to:

• Showcase their expertise from a Fan Page
• Provide valuable market data and information for a particular area (city) to their network
• Easily customize and install on your own Page (in 5 minutes!)
• Avoid the cost of hiring a professional to customize a local resource tab for you (this app naturally integrates local market trend info via Altos Research, active listings via Roost, mapping via Google, school info via Education.com, and neighborhood info via Walkscore).

The Roost Social Real Estate Application is clearly a value-add now…but there are more goodies to come with this app! Derek Overbey and Alex Chang of Roost took some time to share some important details about using this new app, as well as what’s in store in the future! In the coming months, Roost will add the ability to share market data for up to 5 cities! In addition the feature scope will widen to include featured properties, testimonials, and IDX compliant MLS search (inside Facebook)!!!

I have to say it’s very refreshing to witness a company like Roost incorporate Facebook functionality and real estate expertise…and deliver it to agents for FREE! Yep, this app is currently available on Facebook for FREE. You can add it to you Fan Page today, simply search “Roost Social Real Estate” once logged in to Facebook. Several agents have already taken advantage of the opportunity to add the app, check out Brad Coy’s Page,  Heather Elias’ Page, and Engel Real Estate Page for great examples of customization.

To add the Roost Social Real Estate Application to your Fan Page, follow these steps:

(1)    Visit the Roost Social Real Estate Application Page inside Facebook, and click on “Go to Application”.

(2)    You’ll be prompted to customize the app to your selected Fan Page by selecting: “Create Profile”

(3)    Next customize the application with your contact information, logo, and informational verbiage. NOTE- You can update the marketing verbiage periodically to share the latest trends and tips with your local network.

(4)    Finally, you’ll need to add the app to your Page. FYI- Facebook must render some images of the app so if it doesn’t load completely at first, be patient!

Once the tab has loaded onto your Page, you can direct your clients to the info by announcing it via a status update on your Profile, and even on your Fan Page! Also, be sure to share your Facebook Page URL on all your marketing. Write a blog post letting your clients now about this new feature on your Page, or create a postcard to share with your farm.

Facebook celebrated it’s 6^th birthday in style…by launching a redesign of the home page.  I was excited to be included in the initial 80 million accounts that were updated with the design on February 4th. This new layout is being rolled out to the remaining Facebook users now (Reggie’s still waiting).

I have to say I’ve been a bit annoyed with some of the recent minor changes made by Facebook, but when it comes to this new overhaul…I’m a fan! Most notably, are the cleaner home page appearance and the removal of the bottom “start” bar. The search bar is now prominently displayed in the top center of the home page, just above the News Feed. And the top blue navigation bar has been simplified to include just a few key quick launch links on the left and right sides.

Now just in case you are a tad turned around by this new layout, I put together a quick list of 10 tips for getting reacquainted with the network you know and love!

(1)   Quick Launch Notifications – Located in the upper left, gain quick access to your most recent notifications.  I’ve been using and enjoying the notifications feature more and more lately. I find it helpful in keeping track of who’s interacting with me, as well as to easily navigate back to conversations I’m participating in.

(2)   Quick Launch Friend Request – Now the old “friend requests” link is still available in the upper right. But this new quick launch button in the upper left provides a drop down menu to scan recent friend requests. You can also click through to your “friend request dashboard” for a full view.

(3)   Quick Launch Messages – The “inbox” link has been removed from the navigation bar. Now you can access your messages 2 ways from the home page. Either select “messages” from the left sidebar navigation or my preferred channel…the new messages quick button in the upper left. A simplified drop down menu will appear, allowing you to scan your recent messages, respond back, and even quickly send a new message.

(4)   Left Sidebar Navigation – The removal of the bottom navigation bar (or start bar) was a good move! I don’t know about you, but I rarely used it. Now, we have a more organized left sidebar to navigate events, photos, friends, games, applications, ads & pages, groups, marketplace, etc.

(5)   Friend Filtering – Upon first glance you might miss noticing where to access and navigate “lists” you created to filter your friends in the New Feed. This is probably one of the most important features Facebook offers as it provides an organized and consistent approach to engaging with key friends in your network. To filter the News Feed via your lists, select the “Friends” link in the left sidebar and the “Friends” dashboard will appear. You will then be able to select from your created friend lists in the left sidebar under the main “Friends” heading.

(6)   Applications & Games Dashboards – You can select and view these new dashboards from the left sidebar. Both provide an overview of your friends’ recent game and/or application activity. This is nice new way to see and connect with other friends playing the same game, or better yet, who is utilizing an app that you may also find helpful.

(7)   Revised Chat – Now moved to the left, similar in functionality and a right bottom bar remains to keep the conversation flowing.

(8)   Simplified News Feed – Well, it’s actually pretty similar to it’s predecessor, but the options have been more clearly stated: “Top News” and “Most Recent”.

(9)   Updated Account Menu – Still a link in the upper right, but the menu of options has been expanded to include “Edit Friends”, “Credits Balance”, and “Logout” in addition to the various privacy, account, and application settings.

(10)   Rebuilt Photo Uploader – Next time you upload a photo, you’ll not only have the option to browse from your computer (which by the way provides a more robust navigation interface) but you’ll also be able to create and use a custom email for uploading (similar to Posterous).

MyTechOpinion – I give the new Facebook layout 2 thumbs up! After playing around with it for a few days, I’m impressed with the quicker speed at which I can interact, message, and share. And, the home page interface is much cleaner without the cluttering of repetitive feature links and bars. But that’s my opinion…what’s yours?

Agents that already utilize Realtor.com to post their listings will be able to sync with their account via the app. Branding and contact information is carried over so that interested buyers can easily reach out to the agent, or even add the agent to their iPhone address book. In fact, an interested buyer can contact the listing agent in a number of ways with a single tap: ask a question, call agent directly, visit agent Website.

Consumers can easily search for homes and upcoming open houses, explore neighborhoods using the map view, and utilize the advanced search criteria. And when I say “easily”, I’m particularly referring to the GPS feature which allows users to drive around a neighborhood they like and view all the current listings in the area (which are also updated every 15 minutes).  BTW- You could also search using the MLS number.

Once you’ve selected a home you like, the listing detail page offers up a good amount of info, as well as up to 25 photos of the home (which can also be viewed in landscape mode). The home buying process itself can become a more organized and efficient process with this app by saving favorites and using the Notes and Ratings features.

Now when it comes to sharing listing information, buyers using the app can simply email their favorites to friends or agents,  or….share to Facebook or Twitter! I appreciate the fact that I can add a personal message along with the listing I share, making the sharing experience more personalized.

It’s important to note that although this app was created specifically for iPhone users, Realtor.com will be exploring options for other mobile sharing devices this year.

To get started, you can download this app from the iPhone App Store by searching “Realtor.com”…oh, and it’s FREE!

Let’s start with obvious failures inside Facebook…at the moment!

MyRealEstateListings (there are 2 of them, as well as a few more similarly named cohorts) but they essentially all do the same thing- create a “MyRealEstate” or “MyListings” tab on your profile. You can then click on the tab (when was the last time you clicked on a tab) to view a lack luster interface of your manually entered listings from which you can then decide to click further to obtain details, which lands you on a third party site outside of Facebook. Click for more details, really!?!

My Listings, or Realtor Listing Application, displays your listings on a tab or box on the side of your profile. But again when you click to learn more you are taken to a third party site away from Facebook. Third party site. Really!?!

CenterStage for Real Estate, a failed, failed attempt to charge you $8 for displaying listings inside Facebook. Don’t even get me started! $8, really!?!

Oodle Pro aims to solve the listings inside Facebook issue. The tool can distribute listings to online communities like Facebook Marketplace & MySpace Classifieds. I’m sorry, when was the last time you were on MySpace.  Really!?! Oodle Pro can upload your listings to your Profile and Fan Page, yet they recommend to keep personal and professional identities separate from one another.  Listings on both, or is it one or the other, really!?!  And Oodle Pro will run you $15 a month! Really!?!

I will throw them a small “woot” for displaying links back to social profiles from wherever your listings get posted online.  And I do see great value in listing syndication to numerous online marketplaces and listing aggregators…don’t get me wrong! But the Facebook MarketPlace is not where I’ll be turning to search for my dream home. Really!?! I’ll turn to a reputable source…like the agent, broker, or one of the major real estate portals.

Apparently, the best options…

Posting your listings as status updates on a Fan Page dedicated to your local market, where locals can choose to participate seems like the best choice to me! This strategy is non-invasive, opt-in, and informative. It can even be more friendly and creative since you can add your own take via text in the status bar along with a link to the listing…preferably one that takes you back to the agent/broker blog or site.  Check out the example from Heather Elias.

Now if you don’t host listings on your own domain, the next best option is creating a single property site or posting to Vflyer or Postlets. Once you’ve created a detailed packed site with all the trimmings (local info, pictures, video, etc) you can post the URL to your Fan Page Wall and include a brief message. Some services include an autopost to Facebook feature.

SeeMyListings from Realtor.com is a widget that can be added to your Facebook profile and displays your listings. To view more details you are derailed to a 3^rd party site, but it is a more reputable site (at least in the eyes of consumers) and also displays listings in a much more user friendly manner.  See the example I grabbed from Mariana Wagner’s profile on the left.

Now if you are looking for a more organic way to share listings inside Facebook, I would recommend using photo albums. You can create photo albums of active and sold listings. I have to say, The Rains Team, does a great job of sharing listings via photos on their fan page.  But don’t forget to include a few details about the home, and important contact info.  I also came across Lesley Lambert’s photo of a recent listing via Posterous inside Facebook. She emailed the photo from her phone which was posted to her Posterous site as well as her Posterous photo album inside Facebook.

Last but not least, if you like to have stuff that no one else has you can create a custom tab for your listings with FBML (Facebook Markup Language).  You could brand the landing page with links to your blog or listing sites.  Check out  the Los Gatos Real Estate & Homes Fan Page via Mary Pope Handy. She includes a great deal of area info, market reports and listings with links to her blog. But again, I worry that tabs get looked over. Nonetheless, I know where to look for Los Gatos housing info inside Facebook.

My opinions on all this…really!?!

Personally, if and when I’m ready to move again I wouldn’t go to Facebook to look for listings. I’d go to a resource that rocks…like the agent or broker Website or a national aggregator. I go to Facebook to make connections and build relationships….to chat and find out what’s new in the lives of my friends, family, colleagues and clients! Search listings, really!?!

But if you’re goal is to show everyone the listings you’re currently managing, then go ahead and share them at Facebook too. But consider posting them to a Fan Page dedicated to your market area with links back to you, your site, or your company…not third party sites. Third party sites, really!?!

Don’t fail at implementation! If you post photos about the listing on Facebook don’t forget critical contact info or brief details. No contact info, really!?!

So, what’s your opinion…

• Do you think listings should be posted inside Facebook?
• If so, what’s the best way?
• Where do you post listings ? Profile and/or fan page?

Here are some highlights of what’s new:

- See upcoming Events & Birthdays
- See Pages, post updates & photos to Pages you admin
- Write Notes and read your friends’ Notes
- Upload videos from an iPhone 3GS
- Upload photos w/Complete photo management
- Change your Profile Picture
- Zoom into photos
- Like posts and photos
- Full Facebook News Feed
- Visit links in a built-in web browser
- See all of your friends’ friends and Pages
- See mutual friends
- Easily search for people and Pages
- Make friend requests & fan Pages
- Quickly call or text your friends
- Create shortcuts to your favorite friends and Pages
- Chat with friends

What does this new Facebook app mean for you?

By now you should already know that Facebook has over 250 million users world-wide…the largest social network in the world. This new application brings all of that power into the palm of your hand.  For the first time this app lets users interact with Facebook they way they could from their computer.

Here are a few of my quick favorites:

A) I absolutely love this new ability to add shortcuts to my favorite people and pages. Here’s what you do:

1. Open the Facebook 3.0 app on your iPhone
2. Slide the main screen to the left. You’ll land on the shortcuts screen.
3. Click the “+” in the top left corner
4. Now search for a friend or page that you manage or read. Click the icon and it will be instantly added to the shortcuts screen.

B) Upload video or photos to your wall or a friend’s wall:

1. Visit the wall in which you would like to post videos or share photos
2. Click the camera icon the left of the status field
3. Follow the on screen prompts

(*Video is only for iPhone 3GS. Also for now you will not be able to preview the video you leave from the Facebook app. You will see a message however that they’re working on it. Looks like we can expect it in a future update.)

C) Use your Facebook lists with the Newsfeed:

1. Click the “News feed” icon
2. Now you enter the full newsfeed, click the “News feed” button at the top right
3. Now spin the wheel and stop of the list you want to view

Please reply here and let us know what you like best about this new app, and how will you use it?

If you would like to know how you get the Fan Box, watch this short video:

Now out of the box, this widget may need some very small customization depending on how and where you implement. Maybe you need to change the width for a smaller sidebar or modify the widget because you already have Facebook Connect running on your site. I thought I would take a minute to share the each component of the widget.

Part 1
FeatureLoader.js.php is the main JavaScript file used in all Facebook Connect implementations and must be included for the widget to work. However if you already have Facebook connect running on your site, this script would be a duplicate and should not be included.Marketing Advertising Blog — VuManhThang.Com

[php]&amp;lt;script src=&amp;quot;http://static.ak.connect.facebook.com/js/api_lib/v0.4/FeatureLoader.js.php&amp;quot; type=&amp;quot;text/javascript&amp;quot;&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/script&amp;gt;[/php]

Part 2
The next line is a small piece of Javascript that tells Facebook the API key of your widget. Like the last script, it should be included on all uses except when Facebook connect is already being used on the page. If Facebook Connect is already implemented on the page, do not include this line:

[php]&amp;lt;script type=&amp;quot;text/javascript&amp;quot;&amp;gt;FB.init(&amp;quot;XXXXXXXXXXXXX&amp;quot;);&amp;lt;/script&amp;gt;[/php]

Part 3
This is the XFBML which is used to incorporate FBML in a HTML page. In this case to display the Fan Box.

• Do not change the profile_id, it is the unique id pointing to your Facebook page
• If you choose to include the stream, it will set stream =“1”. To remove the stream set to “0”
• If you choose to include fans, it defaults to connections=“10”
• Change the width (in pixels) as needed to fit your sidebar

[php]&amp;lt;fb:fan profile_id=&amp;quot;XXXXXXXXXX&amp;quot; stream=&amp;quot;1&amp;quot; connections=&amp;quot;10&amp;quot; width=&amp;quot;300&amp;quot;&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/fb:fan&amp;gt;[/php]

Part 4
This is a link back to your Facebook page, and is not required for the widget to work properly.

[php]&amp;lt;div style=&amp;quot;font-size:8px; padding-left:10px&amp;quot;&amp;gt;&amp;lt;a href=&amp;quot;http://www.facebook.com/mytechopinion&amp;quot;&amp;gt;MyTechOpinion&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt; on Facebook&amp;lt;/div&amp;gt;[/php]

If you would like to try the iFrame version of the widget, replace the XXXXXXXXXX with the API Key provided by Facebook for your Fan Box.

[php]&amp;lt;iframe scrolling=&amp;quot;no&amp;quot; frameborder=&amp;quot;0&amp;quot; src=&amp;quot;http://www.facebook.com/connect/connect.php?id=XXXXXXXXXX&amp;amp;connections=15&amp;amp;stream=1&amp;quot; allowtransparency=&amp;quot;true&amp;quot; style=&amp;quot;border: none; width: 300px; height: 600px;&amp;quot;&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/iframe&amp;gt; [/php]

MyTechopinion
Facebook pages are a great option for real estate professionals in terms of both enhancing brand recognition and becoming a trusted advisor. Think about the average fan, once they’re connected they have the opportunity to engage with you on a regular basis. But also realize Facebook pages take a lot of effort to maintain. Try sharing relevant information, resources and fun content on a regular basis. Then watch your insights and gage what your fans engage with most?

TinyChat recently delivered version 2 of their chat product and I’m really impressed.  The application is extremely intuitive, which starts with a large text field prompting for a chat room name. Within seconds your new room is created.  But not before you’re given the chance to sign in using Twitter and invite other participants.  If you’re not using Twitter don’t fret; just enter your name to continue.

At this point the chat room has been created, now set a chat topic and select your privacy option.  By private it really means not listed on the TinyChat website.  If you need password protection, you’ll have to upgrade to the professional plan.  With that plan, you’ll also own up to 5 rooms, and broadcast in HQ video.

A TinyChat session can host up to 200 concurrent chat participants, and 12 simultaneous audio, video broadcasts.  The audio and video is really easy to operate. Click the big message the reads “Add live audio and video to this room” then approve the use of Tiny Chat to access your camera and microphone.  In our testing, we had multiple users streaming audio and video and I found the quality was equal to what I experience from Skype.

Other TinyChat features worth noting include:

• Share files via Flyupload
• Save chat transcripts
• Ban annoying users
• Embed the chat on your website or blog
• Share the chat room via Twitter, Facebook, or MySpace (or via any network by sharing the URL).

MyTechOpinion

I’m really impressed with the user interface of TinyChat.  I like that I wasn’t forced to install cumbersome software to initiate a chat session.  I appreciate the “ignore” link that moderators see next to each user’s update. If an unruly visitor joins the chat, use this feature to block them from participating. It’s also comforting to know that TinyChat works on Windows, Mac and Linux; using Firefox, IE, Safari, and Chrome browsers.

Real estate agents using this tool on a regular basis for online chat or webinars sessions may want to consider subscribing to the professional plan. As mentioned you’ll gain the ability to save room names-to protect your brand or keyword.

Those real estate agents that authentically engage with their network will succeed in creating new and flourishing relationships across the Internet. Some members of your network may help your business in terms of promotion, referrals or even through a transaction. I can’t tell you which, that depends on you and your actions. Although we can help you by sharing strategies you can implement into your business immediately!

If you’re interested in learning more about marketing your business in Facebook, and you’re free tomorrow (April 21st, 2009) at 10am (pacific) please join us for a free webinar hosted by Cyberhomes.com.  The session will be led by @Nik_Nik and me @Cyberhomes.

Resources:

1. RSVP Here
2. Facebook Event Page

Here are some fun promo videos for the event. Please let us know what you think!
Facebook Strategy #17 – Authentic Messages

Facebook Strategy #24 – Business Pages

When it comes to helping my friends, colleagues and clients establish a Web presence I suggest creating a Facebook Profile (as one of many online strategies). Facebook, as most of us know, is the largest online network with over 150 million users. It offers abundant opportunities for building relationships (both on and offline). Real Estate Professionals can easily drill down to a local level by connecting with their local sphere, joining local groups, creating their own group or fan page (among other things). But before going crazy with applications and groups….you need to make sure your profile is COMPLETE!

One super duper easy way to find out what your profile needs is by using FacebookGrader. It’s another great offering by Hubspot. Facebook Grader will analyze the number of friends you have, the power of your network, the completeness of your profile and a few others. I tried this bad boy out expecting to receive a score of 100 (hey now…I AM an overachiever…or I like to think I am). Instead I received an 88 because I was missing a few important details in my bio and I never specified a business location. FacebookGrader caught a few areas that I didn’t realize were incomplete. Since updating, I’ve now been bumped up to a 99.1. Guess there’s always room for improvement! BTW- You can even grade your business page!

So if you’re serious about making waves online…then you need to make sure that you’re giving people what they need to learn more about you and make it easy for them to connect with you! So I dare you to give FacebookGrader a try and let me know what you think?!

PLEASE NOTE:  This service is still fairly NEW, so it may occasionally give you an error. Just try again or check back shortly (probably a minor hiccup). Also, join the FacebookGrader Fan Page to connect with other users and the developers.

The awards ceremony was a mish-mash of tech presenters, mini-interviews, and fairly predictable commentary. But thanks to the hilarious and highly technical musings offered by the Richter Scales new hit, the Standford Mobile Phone Orchestra (who played Stairway to Heaven on their iPhones), and the spicy Sesame Street inspired videos via Loren Feldman…..the event was worth the $65.

The Crunchies After Party was held across the street in the San Francisco City Hall Rotunda!  Drinks and food were aplenty, along with a little on and offline gaming! But I mostly enjoyed playing with my future birthday present (hint, hint @cyberhomes), the Microsoft Surface! Clearly the most high-tech coffee table one could ask for (like say, for her birthday). But at $15,000 a pop (plus another $5000 or so for the operating system), it will take me about 15 birthdays to earn one!  Still worth every penny in my opinion! I had a front row seat and played contently (wine in hand). Reggie (my hot date) and I also spoke with David Smith, Account Director at Wirestone, about the mainstream release of this unit (3-6 months), as well as how real estate professionals could benefit.  Check out our video below…

Personally, I think listing presentations would kick ass on the Surface. Imagine sitting around a coffee table leading your clients through a visual, hands-on presentation of your expertise, market comparables, and marketing plan. In addition, stagers and home improvement pros would be awestruck (I was) at the ability to place objects (like a tile) on the table and receive automated visual Web results for suppliers and comparisons.  Throw down a picture of your current home and view examples of what that tile would look like in your home, as well as other instant home improvements. This would be the perfect tool for showing sellers which upgrades to focus on to get the most value out of their home.  Obviously, the price is a bit steep for this market, but a progressive brokerage could definitely stand out in a crowd if placed in a comfortable front reception area. I wouldn’t let teenagers off the street play with it, but leading new buyers through a local pre-tour would be impressive to say the least.

Overall, the highlight of the evening was definitely connecting with some highly technical Twits. I briefly mentioned to Reggie that it would “make my evening” (honestly, my year) if the opportunity to meet @ev or @biz arose. And thanks to timing and Reggie’s keen eye, we spotted @ev and introduced ourselves. Evan Williams “@ev” is a blogfather and genius technical innovator who has founded both Blogger and the most popular micro-sharing platform, Twitter!!!! He was kind enough to let us give him the lowdown on Twitter for real estate and his gorgeous wife, Sarah, happily snapped a picture!

All in all, I’ll be adding The Crunchies to my “don’t miss” event list for next year as well.  But perhaps someone could hook me up with some preferred seats next time. I’d be happy to volunteer…say as the “hot chick award giver or stage babe” (i.e. Rumer Willis at the Golden Globes). I know models are usually chosen for that…but for technology awards I think a “geek girl” is much more apropos!

If you haven’t already noticed, we’ve already begun tweaking MyTechOpinion.  Even the slightest nuance is important to us (just check out our comment stream). We will keep you posted on the new additions coming your way…starting with our latest add, Facebook Connect. Join the MyTechOpinion community and take advantage of the perks… like the ability to add all your social networks to comments made on MTO posts.

We know how important building relationships will be for us and YOU in 2009. And that is why we believe that adding community right on your blog is going to be a powerful goal for many of you!  Don’t forget… we’ll be here to support you along the way by answering your questions and offering additional consulting, trainings and a few more top secret goodies (that I must keep under lock and key until we officially begin 2009).

So with all that said, we could not be making new strides without appreciating the old ones that got us here. The following list includes MTO’s top posts of 2008. We want to thank you for taking part in the conversations here at MTO and look forward to a ROCKIN’ NEW YEAR with YOU!

MyTechOpinion’s Top 12 Posts of 2008:

(1)    Kickstart Your Blog Community Facebook Connect

(2)    A Twitter Resource for Real Estate Twits

(3)    22 Reasons to Use Twitter for Business & Pleasure

(4)    Great Real Estate Plugin: The Secret Tool For Featuring Listings w/ WordPress

(5)    Add Cyberhomes to Your Real Estate Website, Blog or Single Property Site

(6)    Window’s XP Service Pack 3 May Cause More Issues Than It Fixes

(7)    Focus Your Social Media Marketing

(8)    Realbird Integrates with StreetView API

(9)    How to Add Podcasting to Your Estate Blog

(10) Save Money on Technology Purchases

(11) Are you missing lead generation opportunities with your IDX/MLS search tool?

(12) Kick Off to MTO Vlogging Contest