Here's how you can promote yourself as a freelance Commercial Real Estate consultant.

The most important thing first of all is to be confident and know what you are doing! I went solo after a long period at smaller practices then at one of the top real estate companies in the UK & Europe where I built my reputation and experience. When I started I had a pipeline of work in place through clients who followed me and wanted to stay with me.

To promote yourself as a freelance Commercial Real Estate consultant, focus on building credibility. Seek certifications from reputable industry organizations to demonstrate your expertise and commitment. Consistently provide high-quality advice and uphold professional integrity to solidify your reputation. Additionally, leverage word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients, as they can significantly boost your credibility in the industry.

I have experience here as a successful consultant in the CRE industry. Credibility is among the most important factors in our ability to succeed, next to capability. Education and credentials/certifications/designations are powerful, but even more so is sharing that knowledge and experience in a meaningful and substantive way. Participate in industry discussions such as these --- don't stand on the sidelines. Create written and multimedia content that's easy to absorb and provides actionable insights. And, of course, always follow through and deliver more than promised.

By showcasing your expertise, you position yourself as a thought leader in the field and attract potential clients who are seeking your specialized knowledge. Additionally, actively engage with other professionals in the industry through networking events, online forums, and social media platforms to further establish your credibility and expand your reach.

Actively participate in networking events, both online and offline. Attend local real estate meetings, chamber of commerce events, and professional gatherings. These are excellent opportunities to meet potential clients and collaborators who can refer you to others. Make a lasting impression by being genuine and offering valuable insights during discussions.

Online interactions are great, yet nothing beats face-to-face communication. Networking events offer the opportunity to make new connections, get your name and brand out there, get a pulse on your industry, and build confidence. Don't wait, and don't be timid — find the nearest event or CRE organization and get involved.

Prioritize quality over quantity when networking. Focus on making genuine connections with relevant individuals rather than trying to meet everyone. Listen actively during conversations to build rapport and show interest in others' experiences. Initiate conversations with strangers by asking about their industry involvement or expressing interest in their work. Follow up promptly after events with personalized messages to nurture connections and explore collaboration opportunities. Attend niche networking events tailored to commercial real estate consulting for more targeted networking opportunities.

Create a professional website showcasing your services and past successes. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn to share industry insights and connect with potential clients. Regularly sharing valuable content positions you as an expert in commercial real estate. For instance, I revamped my website and regularly post industry updates on LinkedIn, which has helped me attract new clients and showcase my expertise.

There are perhaps no more important marketing pieces than your website and social media channels. I like the phone book analogy. Back in the day, if you needed a local service and didn't have an existing provider or referral, you got out the phone book and went down the list. You'd call the most relevant and best-presented service first. Google in conjunction with your website and social channels are your directory listings, and if the people searching for you can't find you or aren't impressed, you're out of luck. And this isn't just about new prospects, but anyone who's trying to vet you. So, invest in a great design, assemble compelling messaging, and showcase your expertise and credentials.

Craft a professional website highlighting your services and achievements. Keep it simple and easy to navigate. Use LinkedIn to share industry insights and connect with potential clients. Regularly engage with your network by commenting on posts and sharing valuable content. Consider creating a blog section on your website to showcase your expertise and attract potential clients through relevant, informative content.

I regularly publish the "Market News" to keep my contacts informed about the latest market changes and relevant commercial real estate information. It's a great way to stay updated and in-the-know.

Determine the services you specialize in and the clients you serve best. Tailor your marketing materials, like brochures or emails, to address the specific needs of your target audience. This focused approach makes you more appealing to clients seeking specialized CRE expertise. For instance, I narrowed down my services to focus on industrial property management, which helped me attract clients looking for expertise in that area.

Look for other consultants and agencies that service your target market. Depending on your skill set, you may be the missing piece in their offerings. If you provide value, convenience, and reliability (and they do, too), there may be the makings of a fruitful business relationship that generates mutual business.

Continuous learning is crucial in CRE. Identify the areas where you need to update your knowledge, such as new regulations or emerging markets. Take relevant courses and webinars, or read industry publications to stay up-to-date. Attend conferences or workshops to learn about the latest trends and network with experts.

Give talks and lectures to local service clubs and university classes interested in CR and what you have to share and say. Your reputation will grow and your command of your topics will grow exponentially.