#65 - From Zero to Top 1%: Building a Referral-Based Business with DeAnn Dillard

In this episode of Referrals Done Right, Scott sits down with top 1% real estate agent and referral expert DeAnn Dillard. DeAnn shares her inspiring journey from starting in a new city with no contacts to becoming a self-made leader in real estate through innovation, relationship-building, and pivoting in the face of challenges. Get ready for actionable insights and motivational advice on growing your referral-based business.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to Build a Business Through Referrals: DeAnn explains why referrals are the highest-converting pillar of any business and how to create relationships that sustain your career.
• Networking with a Purpose: Discover how to approach networking events and partnerships with a value-driven mindset that sets you apart from competitors.
• Standing Out in a Crowded Market: Learn how DeAnn’s mantra, “Different is better than better,” helped her dominate her industry by doing what others wouldn’t.
• Creating a Wealth Team: Find out how to partner with service providers, lenders, and other professionals to build a network that grows everyone’s business.
• The Power of Pivoting: Hear DeAnn’s inspiring advice on adapting to challenges, staying resilient, and continuously evolving your approach to achieve success.

Don’t miss this episode packed with inspiration and strategies for leveraging relationships to create long-term business success!

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Episode Markers:
(0:00) - Scott's Intro
(2:00) - Show Start
(4:00) - Why are Referrals so Important?
(4:45) - Starting in a New Town
(7:50) - Collaboration Happens at the Top
(8:15) - Common Mistake in Referrals
(10:45) - How Does DeAnn Stand Out?
(12:15) - Nationwide Referral Network
(16:40) - Top of Mind Awareness
(17:20) - Types of Relationships & Asset Partners
(20:40) - Strategies & Consistency
(23:15) - Pillars of Business
(24:45) - Advice to Someone Who is Struggling
(25:30) - Understanding Your Why & Getting Help
(26:55) - Getting to the Core & Legacy
(28:35) - Connecting with DeAnn
(30:00) - Self Made to Top 1%
(31:15) - Pivot


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Scott Grates' Links:
Referrals Done Right Book Pre Sales - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com
Referrals Done Right FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/296359076662332
Insurance Agency Optimization - https://www.agencyoptimization.com
Scott Grates Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Love Living Local  - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/scottgrates

DeAnn's Links:
Website - https://dianndillard.exprealty.com
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/deann-dillard-a48052b0
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/deanndillard.realestate
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/deann.dillard


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The Referrals Done Right Podcast is sharing the secrets to creating infinite opportunities to grow your small business. Hosted by Scott Grates.