From the desk of 2018 CRS President Gary Williams
You’ve probably had this experience many times: You want consumers to know about your CRS Designation. You want them to know how the world-class education you receive benefits them as your clients, how the designation you earned signifies the advanced experience you have and how this dedication to your business sets you apart from your peers. You want them to know just why they always need to choose the best of the best, a CRS Designee, when deciding to sell their current home or purchase their next home.
But, most of the time, consumers don’t have a clue.
With all the designations and certifications out there, many consumers see the initials after a REALTOR®’s name as “alphabet soup.” But you and I know that CRS is different.
To help educate consumers, the Council is investing in some awareness initiatives this year.
The first is a pilot program advertising CRS on Zillow, Trulia and Realtor.com. This four-week program will be used as a test to see how consumers respond, and if there is a good value in reaching out to them at the exact moment they’re scrolling through homes online, thinking about buying or selling.
The second is a series of videos called “Why Use a CRS?” that will be available later this summer. These videos can be used in presentations, on social media, in email newsletters and on your website. They will succinctly explain to your clients exactly why your CRS Designation is advantageous for them. Each video will have a slightly different treatment, so you can tailor them to various audiences you are trying to target.
The Council will also use these videos to advertise Find a CRS and the value of the designation.
Remember, you are the BEST in the business. You lead the way for all other REALTORS®, and you go out there every day and show the value of the designation by giving your clients the knowledgeable and friendly service that goes above and beyond. The Council is expanding those efforts to support all the magnificent work you do. Also, remember to always wear your pin proudly so they can be sure to see who you are and what you represent. 
