Your sphere of influence can become one of the most reliable sources of real estate business—but only if you stay connected and give people a reason to remember what you do.
In this lesson, we’ll look at practical ways to identify the people already in your sphere, stay in touch naturally, build new relationships, and create more opportunities for referrals.
Watch the 13-minute video to learn how to start working your sphere and turn everyday relationships into a steady source of real estate business.
Resources Mentioned in This Lesson
Working Your Sphere Field Guide
Use the field guide to help you put the ideas from this lesson into action and begin working through your own sphere. Download ⬇️
Quick Summary
Your sphere is bigger than you may think. Start with the contacts already in your phone: friends, family, past customers, neighbors, contractors, service providers, local businesses, and other people you’ve met along the way.
The goal isn’t to contact people only when you need business. Stay in touch consistently, pay attention to what’s happening in their lives, and look for natural opportunities to be helpful. A quick text, handwritten note, birthday card, thank-you card, market update, or personal follow-up can keep the relationship going without making every conversation about real estate.
You can also grow your sphere by becoming more involved in your community. Attend neighborhood or HOA meetings, volunteer, join organizations you genuinely enjoy, participate in local events, and build relationships with people you meet through everyday activities.
Key Takeaways
- Start with your phone. Go through your contacts and identify people you already know but may not have contacted recently.
- Make sure friends and family understand that real estate is your business and that you appreciate referrals.
- Listen carefully during conversations. People often mention moves, family changes, housing needs, or other situations where you may be able to help.
- Ask for introductions when appropriate. A simple three-way text can make connecting with a referral easier and more personal.
- Stay in touch with handwritten notes, cards, texts, and other personal touches.
- Thank people who send referrals your way, whether or not the referral ultimately becomes a client.
- Build relationships with contractors and other service providers who may hear about homeowners preparing to buy or sell.
- Be prepared to talk naturally about real estate and answer questions about your local market.
- Offer useful information, such as regular market updates, when someone is interested in receiving it.
- Participate in neighborhood activities, community events, clubs, volunteer organizations, and other places where you can build genuine relationships.
- Keep notes about conversations and follow-ups so important details don’t get forgotten.
- Stay connected consistently. Your sphere works best when relationships are maintained over time—not only when you need business.
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