Working smarter involves more than evolution of our systems and success strategies: it requires revolution. You can tweak what you’ve done in the past and then you have to do a little more than you did before and do it a little faster, but there is a limit to how much harder and faster the average person can do.

Over the last 10-15 years, technology has given us ways of accessing information and using databases in ways that streamline what used to take hours of work. I can remember in the 80’s spending 3-4 hours putting together a listing presentation so it was customized to the seller and their neighborhood. That same information can be spit out by one of the real estate software programs in 10-15 minutes and is more sophisticated. Yet, I still see many agents who aren’t utilizing this time-saving tool.

There are so many different places in our business that this impacts, it is unwieldy to try to list them all here, but your awareness and curiosity of the new technology will give you an edge. Each chance you have to visit a tech fair or the exhibit hall at your state or national conventions is an opportunity to ask lots of questions and get a free education in the newest ways to use technology in your business. The articles available to you, here at www.agentnews.com are a great source of information and ideas. Remember, you can do a search for all articles on a specific topic when you need data about a certain technology, be it digital cameras, or a PDA.

Do a scan of your own processes and systems. Anywhere you do things repeatedly, you should have a system. Take classes and buy programs that you can use to automate your systems using technology.

I believe in life long learning to stay ahead of the average agent. Technology changes quickly and new ways of using it are being created daily. Attend seminars and take classes to enhance your knowledge. Set aside a block of time each month that is technology time, whether it be going to a class or enhancing your own skills by implementing and incorporating new technology into your business.

Some other resources include:

• Great free teleconferences at www.Myseminars.com

• Free software and classes are available from the title companies in many areas

• Free participation in the users groups on Yahoo for Top Producer and Agent 2000

Consistent attention to this area will build your expertise and you’ll find you are able to cut significantly some of your more time intensive activities.

Published: March 11, 2002

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.

Joeann Fossland ePRO, GRI, MCC, PMN, SRS is a dynamic, international speaker and business coach. She personally coaches a small number of extraordinary agents who want to leverage their production results and have a life they love! She was recognized as one of the 25 Most Influential Women in Real Estate in 2008 by Stephan Swanapoel. Subscribe to her free Tuesday Tips, attend Fossland's Forums, free monthly tele-seminars, and find out about classes delivered by email and personal coaching by visiting Joeann.com or email her at . You can also connect at Facebook and Twitter.