Attending a tradeshow is only the first step in leveraging the benefits of the event. To truly stand out and capitalize on the experience, what you do after the tradeshow is just as important. In this blog post, we dive into the best practices for post-event follow-up to ensure that your efforts pay off.

Below are some key strategies to implement as soon as the event wraps up.

1. Align Your Sales and Marketing Teams

Effective follow-up begins with strong internal communication. As soon as you return from the tradeshow, gather your Sales and Marketing teams for a debrief. Share insights, discuss who you met, and identify potential partnerships. This is also an opportunity to share key takeaways with team members who couldn’t attend the event. Collaborating closely between Sales and Marketing helps ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding lead follow-up strategies and goals.

2. Respond Promptly to Show Leads

Timing is everything in follow-up, and responding promptly to show leads can be a game-changer. Have your follow-up campaign ready before the tradeshow ends so that emails can go out immediately once leads are entered into your system. A fast, tailored response can set you apart from competitors who may take days or weeks to follow up. Remember, the quicker you respond, the more likely you are to stay top of mind with prospects.

3. Prioritize Your Leads

Not all leads hold the same potential, so it’s essential to categorize them based on urgency and interest. Consider sorting your leads into these three categories:

• Cold Leads: Reach out within two to three days. While their interest may be lukewarm, a timely follow-up increases the chances they’ll remember your conversation.
• Warm Leads: These prospects showed interest at the event. Send a follow-up email within 48 hours and consider making a follow-up call to reinforce your outreach.
• Hot Leads: These are your top prospects. Send them directly to your sales team for faster engagement. Move them through the later stages of your marketing funnel to solidify the relationship.

4. Actually Follow Up

It sounds simple, but many businesses drop the ball on follow-up. Make it a priority to reach out promptly and provide any information you promised during the tradeshow. Use your CRM to log all leads and important notes from your conversations. This detailed information will help you continue the conversation from where it left off on the show floor, making your follow-up more personalized and effective.

• Be confident, but let your personality come through in your communications.
• Refer to your notes to hit the key points that resonated with prospects.
• Get straight to the point and don’t miss any crucial details.
• Always include next steps, especially setting up a time for a follow-up call.

5. Implement What You Learned

Tradeshows are more than just lead generation opportunities—they’re learning experiences. As you reflect on your time at the event, put what you learned into action. Review your notes and identify specific strategies or tools you can apply to your work. Ask yourself:

• What resonated with you most?
• How can you use the information to improve your processes or performance?
• Did the event reveal any gaps in your skills, processes, or technology?

Make a concrete plan to implement these insights and set a timeline for making changes. The sooner you act on what you’ve learned, the more effective and impactful those changes will be.

Attending a tradeshow is a fantastic way to network, generate leads, and learn about the latest industry trends, but the real magic happens after the event. By following these best practices, you’ll be able to maximize your tradeshow success and turn those new connections into lasting partnerships.

Stay tuned for more tech and business insights on Tech Talk Tuesdays! Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to never miss an update.

Conferences are invaluable for networking, learning, and finding new opportunities, but to get the most out of them, preparation is essential. We’re diving into how to prepare effectively before attending a conference. Let’s break it down.

1. Selecting the Right Conference

The first step to maximizing your conference experience is choosing the right events to attend. Consider the following factors when making a selection:

• Attendee List: Who’s going to be there? Are these people you want to connect with or learn from?
• Size of the Conference: Larger events offer more exposure, while smaller ones provide intimate networking.
• Location: Is it easy to travel to or attend virtually?
• Speakers and Sessions: Are the topics relevant to your industry and professional goals?

Carefully selecting a conference that aligns with your interests and goals will make your preparation more focused and meaningful.

2. Set Clear Goals

Once you’ve picked a conference, set some clear objectives.

What do you want to achieve?

• Learning more about your industry or market?
• Connecting with key people?
• Finding solutions to specific business challenges?

Knowing what you want from the event will guide how you approach it, who you target for meetings, and which sessions you prioritize. You’ll walk into the event with purpose, ready to achieve your goals.

3. Perfect Your Elevator Pitch

Networking is a huge part of conferences, and standing out is key.

Craft a concise and impactful elevator pitch that includes:

• A problem your audience might have.
• How you or your company solve this problem?

Practice until it feels natural. A great elevator pitch makes you memorable, increasing the likelihood that you’ll make meaningful connections that last beyond the event.

4. Connect Before the Event

Don’t wait until you’re at the conference to start networking.

Use tools like:

• LinkedIn
• The event’s website
• Networking apps associated with the conference

Reach out to attendees or speakers you’d like to meet and propose a meeting in advance. This proactive approach can help you secure valuable face time with key contacts.

5. Schedule and Prioritize Your Time

Plan your conference itinerary before you go.

Look at the agenda and schedule key sessions, leaving room for:

• Networking breaks
• Exploration of the exhibit hall
• Ad-hoc meetings

By mapping out your time, you’ll avoid feeling overwhelmed and ensure you don’t miss out on opportunities.

6. Leverage Social Media

Use social media to engage with the event and its attendees:

• Follow the event’s official hashtag
• Share insights and contribute to ongoing conversations
• Connect with speakers and other attendees

This boosts your visibility and helps you stay part of the conversation, even after the event.

7. Utilize Conference Apps or Portals

Conference apps can be a game-changer. They offer:

• Real-time updates
• Session schedules
• Venue maps
• Networking tools

Make sure to download the app and familiarize yourself with it before the event starts.

Preparation is key to a successful conference experience. By selecting the right event, setting clear goals, refining your pitch, and planning ahead, you’ll be positioned to make the most of your time there.

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to stay up to date on all things tech, software and innovations during our Tech Talk Tuesdays Series.

We are excited to announce our team’s participation in The National Private Lenders Conference (NPLA), hosted in Austin, Texas on October 27th to October 29th. This three-day event is tailor-made for real estate professionals, private lenders and mortgage brokers, offering a comprehensive exploration of topics related to private money financing, technology advances in the industry and the real estate market.

The NPLA Conference boasts a diverse lineup of speakers, each representing different sides of the industry. These experts will deliver valuable insights into the ever-evolving real estate market, covering crucial aspects of private money financing. Attendees can expect engaging presentations that address current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the sector, especially as we near the upcoming election.

Don’t miss the chance to visit our BLN Software booth during the conference. Our Senior Marketing Manager, Erica Sikoski, and Business Development Specialist, Jacob Therrien, will be on hand to engage in meaningful conversations and share valuable information about our software solutions.

For more details about the conference, you can visit the official NPLA Conference website. To plan your schedule and make the most of this event, check out the comprehensive conference agenda available here. We look forward to reconnecting with industry peers, gaining new insights, and contributing to the vibrant discussions at the NPLA Conference in Miami Beach.

Presenting New Opportunities for Their Wholesale Partners & Their Clients

BLN Software is proud to announce the acquisition of REiDeal Master, an innovative real estate investment platform. This strategic acquisition highlights BLN Software’s commitment to providing top-tier solutions in the real estate investment space by incorporating advanced data and insights that empower both the company’s wholesale partners and their investor clients.

With the acquisition of REiDeal Master, BLN Software is poised to revolutionize the way real estate investors find new properties. The platform offers real-time data, including deal analyzers, public records, mortgage information, and rental comparisons, enabling users to make informed and profitable investment decisions. This acquisition enhances the company’s existing suite of software offerings by providing unparalleled access to comprehensive real estate data and streamlining the investment process for investors.

Key Features of the BLN Software and REiDeal Master Acquisition:

1. Data-Driven Insights: The acquisition of REiDeal Master delivers real-time transactional data, helping lenders and investors identify and capitalize on profitable real estate opportunities. The platform reduces risk and increases the likelihood of investment success.
2. Customizable Solutions: REiDeal Master offers customizable features, ensuring that users can tailor their experience to meet specific needs, such as marketing tools, CRM capabilities and lead sourcing. This flexibility gives lenders and investors the tools required to thrive in an ever-evolving market.
3. Enhanced Investment Opportunities: With REiDeal Master investors can now monitor transactional activities more effectively, anticipate investment moves, and seize sales opportunities as they arise.

“We are excited to welcome REiDeal Master into the BLN Software suite of offerings,” said Matthew Volz, Managing Director. “This acquisition not only enhances our platform’s offerings but also solidifies our position as a leader in the real estate investment space. With this acquisition we are providing our clients and their clients with a significant advantage in making informed, profitable decisions.”

As the industry continues to grow and change, BLN Software remains at the forefront, offering cutting-edge software solutions that drive success. The acquisition of REiDeal Master transforms how BLN Software’s wholesale clients serve their investor clients, enabling them to make more informed investment decisions, mitigate risk, and maximize returns.

With the acquisition of REiDeal Master, BLN Software is taking their commitment to empowering their company’s lenders and brokers, to take their investors to new heights, providing them with the tools and insights they need to succeed in a competitive market.

About BLN Software
BLN Software is the leading software provider for the private lending industry. BLN’s platform centralizes and organizes deal scenarios from direct investors, mortgage brokers, and private lenders in a cloud-based solution. Founded by industry experts with decades of experience in real estate investing and lending software, BLN Software streamlines the lending process for mortgage brokers and private lenders. BLN’s platform offers a Loan Origination System and Loan Management System, allowing users to order credit reports, background checks, property valuations, and upload required documents. Additionally, BLN’s platform allows users to easily store, and access client contact information.

With BLN Software, users can increase efficiency and grow their business. Choose the industry-leading software solution for your lending needs.

About REiDeal Master

REiDeal Master is an all-in-one subscription-based technology platform that equips real estate investors with all the tools they need to thrive in every stage of the investment cycle. From market research to closing that next deal, REiDEAL MASTER’s comprehensive technology suite gives investors the competitive edge they need to succeed in any market conditions.  For more information REiDEAL MASTER, visit www.REiDEALMASTER.com. 

We’re diving into a topic that every professional, regardless of industry, should pay attention to: CONFERENCES. If you think conferences are just about listening to speakers or collecting business cards, think again! They offer a wealth of opportunities to grow both your career and your business.

Here are the top 10 reasons why attending conferences can be a game-changer.

1. Learn and Develop Your Skills

Conferences are treasure troves of knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s always something new to learn. The sessions and workshops are designed to introduce fresh ideas, emerging trends, and innovative practices that can broaden your skill set and give you a new perspective on your work.

2. Boost Your Network

Networking is the backbone of business success, and conferences are prime networking grounds. Imagine being surrounded by like-minded professionals, potential partners, and future collaborators. It’s the perfect setting to exchange ideas, forge new connections, and maybe even spark a collaboration that takes your business to new heights.

3. Understand Your Competitors and Industry Challenges

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your competitors and industry challenges. Conferences offer a unique opportunity to gain insights into what your competitors are doing and how they’re tackling common industry obstacles. This information is invaluable for staying ahead of the curve and positioning your business for success.

4. Acquire the Latest Industry Knowledge

The business world is constantly evolving, and staying updated with the latest trends and innovations is crucial. Conferences provide a platform where you can learn about the newest developments in your field, ensuring that you remain competitive and credible in your industry.

5. Implement New Knowledge in Your Company

It’s not just about what you learn; it’s about how you apply it. Conferences equip you with actionable insights that you can bring back to your company. Whether it’s a new strategy, a different approach to problem-solving, or a cutting-edge tool, implementing what you’ve learned can lead to significant improvements in your business.

6. Meet Industry Solution Providers

Exhibition halls at conferences are like gold mines for businesses. Here, you can meet solution providers who offer products and services that could revolutionize the way you work. Whether it’s software, equipment, or services, you’ll find tools that can help streamline your operations and boost your productivity.

7. Immerse Yourself in an Atmosphere Tailored for Growth

Conferences are more than just events; their environments are designed for growth. With workshops, lectures, and discussions all aimed at professional development, you’re in the perfect atmosphere to expand your horizons and take your skills to the next level.

8. Meet with Existing Customers and Partners Face to Face

In our increasingly digital world, face-to-face interactions are becoming rarer—and more valuable. Conferences offer the chance to meet with your existing customers and partners in person, deepening your relationships and creating opportunities for further collaboration.

9. Increase Brand Awareness

Brand visibility is key, and conferences offer a multitude of ways to boost it. From exhibiting to pre-show marketing, cross-promotional opportunities, and even handing out business cards or flyers, there are countless ways to align these activities with your brand and messaging. At BLN, we love to make our booth engage with games or theme-related activities that draw people in and leave a lasting impression.

10. Have Fun and Travel

Conferences aren’t all work and no play. They’re also opportunities to travel, experience new places, and meet inspiring people. Hosting a dinner or event and inviting your clients and partners can turn a business trip into a memorable experience. Plus, these connections often evolve into lifelong friendships.

So, the next time you have the chance to attend a conference, don’t hesitate—seize the opportunity! Whether you’re looking to expand your network, stay updated with industry trends, or just have a great time, conferences offer endless benefits for professionals.

Want to learn more about maximizing your conference experience? Check out our latest Tech Talk Tuesday video, where we dive deeper into these topics and share some insider tips. Watch the Video Now!

Today, we’re exploring a critical aspect of project management and choosing the right project management tool for your team. Whether you’re in private lending, mortgage brokerage, or any industry, selecting the best tool can make a world of difference in project success.

Considerations Before Choosing a Project Management Tool:

1. Methodology Alignment:
   • Deadlines & dependencies
   • Flexibility & changes
   • Visualization of project work and task classification
2. Scale and Scope of Projects:
   • Resources available and needed
   • Adaptability to current needs vs. overwhelming features
3. Business Needs:
   • Stakeholder expectations
   • Frequency and level of detail required
   • Project team’s workstyle and collaboration needs
   • Support for teams, project complexity, timeline, and budget
4. Cost Analysis:
   • Balancing features with affordability

Determine Your Must-Have Features:

1. Task management
2. Online collaboration
3. Project data visualization
4. Project dashboards
5. Integrations with existing apps
6. Team support/training
7. Cost analysis tools
8. Security features

Tips for Choosing and Comparing Software:

1. Make a detailed list of needs and desired features.
2. Research and read reviews, seek peer recommendations.
3. Utilize free trials for hands-on experience.
4. Gather feedback from your team.
5. Consider ease of implementation.
6. Compare costs effectively.

Choosing the right project management tool is like laying a solid foundation for your project’s success. Remember, the right tool isn’t just about the features; it’s about how well it aligns with your team’s needs and workstyle.

As you embark on this journey of choosing a project management tool, stay tuned for more insights and discussions on Tech Talk Tuesdays. Until next time, keep innovating and optimizing your tech strategies!

Ready to find the perfect project management tool for your team? Subscribe to Tech Talk Tuesdays for more expert insights and practical tips to help you succeed in your tech endeavors!

New Brand Marks Bold New Chapter for the Tech Company

BLN Software, formerly known as Bridge Loan Network, is proud to announce a bold rebranding strategy that marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey in the real estate software space. This strategic initiative is set to drive the company into a new era of innovation and cutting-edge solutions, reinforcing its commitment to revolutionizing the way businesses leverage software for success.

As the software landscape rapidly evolves, BLN Software remains dedicated to redefining the industry’s future. This rebranding initiative is designed to elevate BLN Software as a pioneering force in loan origination solutions for real estate professionals. By refining the company’s brand identity, it aims to solidify its position as the go-to partner for businesses seeking advanced loan management solutions.

Key elements of BLN Software’s rebranding efforts include:

• Updated Company Name: The new name, BLN Software, better aligns with the company’s products and services, enhancing its presence in the real estate software market.
• Modern Logo: The refreshed logo symbolizes innovation and the limitless possibilities of technology.

“Our main focus with this rebrand was to bring the brand identity into a more modern era, while still honoring the foundational identities that had come before,” said Taylor Fournier, Graphic Designer at BLN Software. “We decided to keep the icon, while expanding the color palette and redesigning the text portion of the logo. We manipulated parts of the logotype, creating a slot in the “O” to resemble a power button, & connecting the “F” and “T” to represent a connection or bridge. We feel confident that these design decisions help to accurately convey the brand’s ethos.”

“We are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey at BLN Software,” said Jacob Therrien, Business Development Specialist at BLN Software. “Our rebranding strategy reflects our unwavering commitment to driving digital innovation and empowering businesses to thrive in the digital age.”

BLN Software invites its clients, partners, and the broader business community to join them in celebrating this exciting new chapter as they continue to lead the way in delivering top-tier software solutions for the real estate industry.

About BLN Software
BLN Software is the leading software provider for the private lending industry. BLN’s platform centralizes and organizes deal scenarios from direct investors, mortgage brokers, and private lenders in a cloud-based solution. Founded by industry experts with decades of experience in real estate investing and lending software, BLN Software streamlines the lending process for mortgage brokers and private lenders. BLN’s platform offers a Loan Origination System and Loan Management System, allowing users to order credit reports, background checks, property valuations, and upload required documents. Additionally, BLN’s platform allows users to easily store, and access client contact information.

With BLN Software, users can increase efficiency and grow their business. Choose the industry-leading software solution for your lending needs.

Visit www.blnsoftware.com to learn more about BLN Software and the solutions they offer.

Recently we’ve talked a lot about different software solutions, what to consider when looking at solutions, and how they can positively impact your business. Today we are going to discuss the importance of having the capability of your software systems to speak to one another through Third-Party Integrations. 

In the digital age, businesses rely on an array of software solutions to manage operations, analyze data, and engage with customers. However, many of these solutions operate in isolation, creating data silos and inefficiencies.

That’s where third-party party integrations come in – they bridge the gap between different software systems, enabling seamless communication and data exchange.

Imagine integrating your project management tool with your communication platform, enhancing team collaboration and project visibility.

By integrating diverse software solutions, businesses can automate workflows, eliminate manual data entry, and gain holistic insights into their operations. This level of integration isn’t just for large enterprises; startups can also unlock the full potential of their software environment through strategic integrations.

What is a third-party Integration?

Now, let’s dive and let’s define third-party software integration in simple terms.

Third-party integration involves including an external application, program interface, or API, in your system. Think of it like adding the ability to order Appraisals within your software instead of having to use another website or portal — this integration uses existing functionalities to seamlessly enhance your platform.

Advantages of third-party integrations? 

Client Satisfaction

Third-party integrations can make the system more familiar to clients. They may already know how to operate external applications, which can make it easier for them to use the features of the new application within your system. Prioritizing convenience for users can make positive impressions on them, allowing you to sustain their interests and attract new customers who can benefit from the product.

Company Resources

As the company builds the software, it saves time, and development costs, and delivers functionalities to users faster. It’s like integrating your best features with another company’s best features, streamlining your process, and expanding the reach of your resources.

To sum up, third-party software integration is a game-changer for businesses seeking efficiency and innovation. 

Stand Out in the Crowd

The third-party integration can represent a unique addition to the software and encourage clients to choose your product over competitors who would require multiple outlets to achieve the same result. 

Are there any disadvantages of third-party integrations?

Relies on the performance of the API

One drawback of third-party integration is relying on the performance of the external system. If the API malfunctions, it can affect the performance of the system that it’s integrated with, or your system, which can affect the client’s experience.

What to look for when choosing to integrate with a partner?

Here are some tips you can use to select a third-party integration application that works best for a product:

First consider the purpose of the product. 

Take some time to think about why consumers would use your product and what features they would expect from the application. By understanding the purpose of your product, you can identify third-party applications that can enhance its functionality and help achieve your goals.

Put yourself in the shoes of the user.

Reflect on their needs and preferences when selecting a third-party integration. Look for applications that users may already be familiar with and consider distributing surveys to gain insights into your consumers. This will allow you to make a more informed decision that aligns with user expectations.

Ensure compatibility with third-party apps and the product. 

It’s important to review the regulations and technical components from a technological perspective. This will help ensure a seamless integration that can effectively support your product design and goals.

Evaluate the beneficial features the integration can provide. 

Prioritize applications that offer unique features that resonate with your consumers. Consider how the integration can enhance the user experience and save you the effort of developing those features in-house.

Contemplate adding multiple options.

By integrating multiple applications into your product, you increase the chances of users recognizing familiar platforms and enjoying a seamless experience. For example, on the account creation page, offering sign-in options with various social media and email platforms can enhance user convenience.

What are some other examples of third-party integrations?

• CRM or Marketing Platforms 
• Application Submissions through Websites 
• Loan Management Tools
• Credit & Background Reporting 
• Appraisal Ordering and Inspection Reports 
• Doc Creations and E-signatures 
• Google Map Property Locations
• Servicing Capabilities 
• Data and Analytic Reporting

Don’t forget to tune into our Tech Talk Tuesdays Series for more enlightening discussions, and if you have a topic you’d like us to discuss leave it in the comments below and don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel to stay up to date. Until next time, keep innovating and elevating your tech game!

Watch this Tech Talk Tuesdays Episode – Innovate with Integration: Leveraging Third Party Integrations

In the dynamic landscape of private lending and mortgage brokering, strategic partnerships have emerged as a powerful method for growth and success. In our recent episode of Tech Talk Tuesdays, your trusted source for all things tech, AI, and software, we discussed a topic that can revolutionize how lending teams operate: Strategic Partnerships.

Imagine a world where real estate teams, service providers, and lenders join forces not just for transactions but for genuine partnerships. These collaborations go beyond traditional business relationships, aiming to create a partnership where both parties thrive.

Why are Strategic Partnerships Crucial?

Strategic partnerships offer a cooperative relationship where both parties benefit. Teaming up means enhanced lead generation and stronger client referrals. It’s about building trust and collaboration beyond transactions. These partnerships allow businesses to tap into new markets, expand their reach, and leverage each other’s strengths for mutual growth.

Initiating and Optimizing Partnerships:

Initiating partnerships can start with networking events, industry conferences, or mutual connections. It’s about identifying complementary services or target markets and aligning goals for a win-win scenario. Optimizing partnerships requires clear communication, shared objectives, and the ability to leverage each other’s strengths effectively.

Practical Strategies for Leveraging Strategic Partnerships:

Identify Complementary Services or Target Markets: Look for partners whose services complement yours or target similar customer segments to maximize synergy.

Collaborate on Marketing Campaigns or Joint Ventures: Pool resources and expertise to create impactful marketing campaigns or joint ventures that attract and retain clients.

Share Industry Insights and Best Practices: Exchange valuable industry knowledge and best practices to stay ahead of trends and enhance service offerings. Share this information with both your client bases for a wider reach.

Establish Clear Communication Channels and Expectations: Define roles, responsibilities, and communication channels upfront to ensure smooth collaboration and alignment.

Measure and Track Partnership Success Metrics: Set key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the impact of partnerships and make data-driven decisions for continuous improvement.

Unlocking Transformative Potential:

Today, we’ve uncovered the transformative potential of strategic partnerships in private lending and mortgage brokerage. Remember, it’s not just about transactions; it’s about building genuine relationships that benefit everyone involved. We invite you to explore collaboration opportunities with lending software to further enhance your partnerships.

Overall, strategic partnerships have the power to unlock growth, foster innovation, and drive success in the competitive landscape of private lending and mortgage brokerage. Stay tuned for more engaging discussions on tech, AI, and software on Tech Talk Tuesdays. Until next time, keep innovating and collaborating!

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our newest initiative: Tech Talk Tuesdays!

At Bridge Loan Network, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of technology and innovation in the lending industry. With Tech Talk Tuesdays, we’re taking that commitment to the next level by bringing you a series of engaging and informative videos that dive deep into all things tech, AI, and software.

What can you expect from Tech Talk Tuesdays?

But that’s not all—Tech Talk Tuesdays is also about YOU! We want to hear from our community of lenders, brokers, tech enthusiasts, and industry professionals. Drop a comment or question below on anything you’d like us to discuss, and we’ll make sure to cover it in an upcoming episode.

Join us every Tuesday for a fresh dose of tech insights, expert advice, and lively discussions. Don’t miss out—subscribe to our channel and stay tuned for the first episode of Tech Talk Tuesdays!

Let’s talk tech together!