We were lucky to catch up with Vanessa Saenz recently and have shared our conversation below.
Vanessa , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s talk about social media – do you manage your own or do you have someone or a company that handles it for you? Why did you make the choice you did?
In the realm of social media, finding the right balance between personal and professional engagement is crucial. As for my personal social media, I take the reins and manage it myself. It’s my space to connect with friends, share personal experiences, and engage with the online community.
On the flip side, when it comes to the business accounts, I’ve recognized the importance of a dedicated approach. To ensure a consistent and impactful online presence, I’ve enlisted the expertise of a skilled individual for content creation and social media posting. Entrusting this aspect of my business to a professional allows me to focus on the core activities that demand my personal touch.
Managing personal and business social media accounts involves different dynamics. While I enjoy the personal touch and authenticity of managing my own profiles, the business accounts benefit from the strategic planning and creativity brought in by a dedicated content creator. It’s a harmonious arrangement that allows me to leverage the strengths of both personal involvement and professional assistance.
By striking this balance, I aim to maintain the authenticity and genuine connection on my personal profiles, while ensuring the business accounts thrive with targeted content and strategic posting. It’s a testament to the evolving nature of social media management and the adaptability required to navigate the ever-changing digital landscape.
The decision to bring professionals on board for social media management was rooted in a deep appreciation for the value these positions hold. Social media has evolved into a powerful tool for business growth, and I recognized the need for dedicated expertise to harness its full potential.
The expertise brought by the individuals I hired has proven invaluable. They possess a nuanced understanding of the ever-changing social media landscape, ensuring that our online presence remains not only relevant but also impactful. Their strategic approach to content creation and posting has elevated our brand visibility and engagement.
One of the standout results has been the ability to stay top of mind with our clients. Consistency is key in the digital realm, and the team I’ve brought in has ensured a steady stream of relevant and compelling content. This has translated into stronger connections with our audience and enhanced brand recall, fostering a sense of trust and familiarity.
Moreover, the impact on client acquisition through social media has been remarkable. Clients who discover us through these platforms are greeted with a cohesive and professional representation of our brand, thanks to the consistent efforts of our social media team. This not only enhances our credibility but also sets a positive tone for potential collaborations.
In essence, the decision to invest in social media expertise has proven to be a game-changer. It’s not just about posting content; it’s about crafting a narrative, building relationships, and staying attuned to the pulse of our audience. The results so far speak volumes about the value of this strategic choice, and I’m excited about the continued growth and opportunities that lie ahead.
As a business owner who has traversed the world of social media, I’ve gathered a few insights that I believe could be valuable for fellow entrepreneurs contemplating their digital strategies.
First and foremost, my advice is to start small. Begin by managing your social media presence personally, as this provides you with a hands-on understanding of the dynamics involved. Consistency is key during this phase; make it a habit to engage with your audience regularly. This initial hands-on approach not only builds a foundation but also allows you to gauge the pulse of your audience.
As your business grows and revenue flows in, consider expanding your approach. This is when hiring a dedicated team for social media management becomes a prudent step. While you entrust certain aspects to experts, it’s crucial not to lose sight of your personal social media presence. Maintaining a separation between your business and personal interests ensures authenticity in both realms.
One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the power of consistency. It’s easy to be discouraged by the occasional lack of likes or comments, but it’s essential to remember that social media is a long game. Even if the engagement isn’t always apparent, people are watching. Staying consistent in your posting schedule and content quality is key to building a strong online presence over time.
In essence, the journey in social media management is a gradual one. Starting small, being consistent, and evolving with the growth of your business are pivotal strategies. Keep a watchful eye on both the professional and personal aspects of your digital presence, and remember: the impact of your efforts may not always be immediate, but the consistency will pay off in the long run.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
In the bustling world of real estate, Vanessa Saenz stands as a beacon of leadership and innovation. As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of multiple companies in the Real Estate Industry, Vanessa has carved an impressive niche, driving success and setting new standards in the San Antonio, Texas area. Her ventures include Xsellence Realty, a Residential and Commercial Real Estate Brokerage; Helotes Property Management, a Residential and Commercial Property Management Company; and Nxt Lvl Apartments, an Apartment Locating firm.
Vanessa’s journey into the real estate domain is as remarkable as her achievements. A graduate from Texas State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Consumer Science, Vanessa’s academic foundation laid the groundwork for her dynamic career. Her passion for the industry led her to be mentored by top executives, honing her skills and preparing her for a leadership role. Vanessa’s commitment to continuous learning and advancement has made her one of the few female Latina leaders in the real estate sector with expertise spanning across various facets of the field.
Under Vanessa’s visionary leadership, Xsellence Realty has emerged as a prominent player in the Residential and Commercial Real Estate scene. The commitment to excellence is evident in every transaction, whether it’s helping families find their dream homes or assisting businesses in securing prime commercial spaces. Helotes Property Management adds another layer to Vanessa’s portfolio, providing impeccable service in managing both residential and commercial properties with a focus on maximizing returns for property owners.
Nxt Lvl Apartments, Vanessa’s brainchild, stands out as a testament to her dedication to client satisfaction. This Apartment Locating firm excels in understanding the unique needs of individuals and families, connecting them with spaces that match their lifestyles seamlessly. Through these ventures, Vanessa addresses the diverse real estate needs of the San Antonio community with a level of expertise and commitment that is truly unparalleled.
Vanessa’s roots in South Texas have instilled in her a strong work ethic, a quality she exemplifies in her daily endeavors. Her leadership style is characterized by a profound sense of community service, goal setting, and transparent communication with both her staff and clients. Vanessa understands the importance of fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture, empowering her team to deliver exceptional results.
What sets Vanessa apart is not just her impressive track record in the real estate industry, but her genuine commitment to the community. She takes pride in her South Texas upbringing and believes in giving back to the community that has shaped her. Vanessa’s dedication to community service reflects not only in her professional endeavors but also in her personal values, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond business transactions.
Vanessa Saenz is not just a leader; she is a trailblazer, breaking barriers as a Latina leader in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her advanced knowledge in multiple areas of real estate is a testament to her dedication to continuous learning and mastery of her craft. Vanessa envisions a future where diversity and excellence coexist seamlessly in the real estate landscape.
As you explore the dynamic world of real estate in San Antonio, Vanessa Saenz and her ventures stand out as symbols of excellence, integrity, and community-centric values. Whether you are looking to buy or sell a property, seeking expert property management, or finding your next dream apartment, Vanessa and her team are dedicated to providing unmatched service. In a world where success is measured not just in transactions but in transformative experiences, Vanessa Saenz is leading the way, one property at a time.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
**Navigating Change: A Pivotal Moment in Real Estate Leadership**
In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, adaptability is not just a virtue but a necessity. I vividly recall a pivotal moment in my journey as the Founder and CEO of Xsellence Realty, a time when the winds of change were blowing, and a strategic pivot became imperative for the success of our real estate brokerage.
At that juncture, we had a system that we believed in – a proven formula for creating top-producing agents. However, a realization dawned upon us – our realtors needed more than just a blueprint for success; they needed a robust support system to thrive. Recognizing this need for a shift in our approach, we took the bold step of revamping our entire brokerage system.
This was not a decision taken lightly. It meant challenging the status quo, redefining our methodologies, and navigating uncharted territory. The prospect of change, especially on such a fundamental level, was met with both excitement and trepidation. Yet, we understood that to empower our realtors for sustained success, we had to pivot our approach.
The process involved meticulous planning, engaging with our team to understand their needs, and aligning our vision with the dynamic nature of the real estate industry. We were essentially building a new foundation while ensuring that the pillars of support for our agents remained strong.
This transformative journey was not without its challenges. Adjusting to the changes required a collective effort from our entire team. It demanded a willingness to embrace the unknown and trust in the vision we had set forth. As a leader, navigating this transition required clear communication, unwavering commitment, and the ability to inspire confidence in the face of uncertainty.
The decision to pivot proved to be a masterstroke, and it was fortuitous that we made these changes before the housing market underwent a significant shift. By foreseeing the need for a different approach and proactively adapting to the evolving landscape, we positioned ourselves as one of the highest-producing brokerages in the region.
The results spoke volumes. Our realtors flourished within the new framework, leveraging the enhanced system and support structures to achieve unprecedented success. The pivotal decision to pivot not only secured our standing in the market but also reinforced our commitment to the growth and prosperity of our agents.
Looking back, I am grateful for the courage displayed by our team and the unwavering belief in the vision that propelled us to make that crucial pivot. It was a testament to our resilience, foresight, and dedication to staying ahead of the curve. The journey taught us that change, when embraced with purpose and strategic intent, can be a catalyst for unparalleled success. As we continue to thrive in the dynamic world of real estate, this pivotal moment serves as a reminder that adaptability is the key to sustained excellence.
Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?
The story of how I met my business partner, Robert, is one that unfolds with the serendipity often found in life’s most impactful moments. Our paths first crossed in 2004 during our college years, and little did we know that this encounter would lay the foundation for a thriving business and life partnership.
In those early days, Robert decided to immerse himself in the world of real estate as a realtor. It was only natural for me to offer my assistance, leveraging my skills in operations, marketing, finances, and paperwork to support his burgeoning venture. As we collaborated, it became evident that we made a formidable team – our strengths complemented each other seamlessly.
Recognizing the potential for growth and inspired by the synergy we shared, I decided to take a significant step in my own career. I obtained my loan officer’s license, a move that positioned us to navigate the dynamic landscape of the real estate market. Little did we anticipate the challenges that lay ahead with the looming mortgage crisis.
When the mortgage crisis unfolded, I found myself at a crossroads. In a bold move, I chose to return to school, seeking new avenues for personal and professional development. Meanwhile, Robert persisted in the real estate industry, obtaining his broker’s license and even venturing into the realm of property management.
During this period, as Robert’s property management company gained traction, I witnessed the potential for growth and expansion. The entrepreneurial spirit within me was ignited, and I recognized an opportunity to contribute significantly to the evolution of his business. Making the decision to step away from corporate America, I embarked on a new chapter, fully committed to the exciting business journey that awaited us.
As Robert continued to elevate his role with a broker’s license, I took on a pivotal role in nurturing and expanding the property management arm of our business. The journey has been marked by challenges, triumphs, and an unwavering commitment to mutual success.
Our story is a testament to the resilience that underlies true partnerships. It’s about seizing opportunities, weathering storms, and evolving together. Today, as we reflect on our journey from college acquaintances to dynamic business and life partners, we are not just colleagues; we are comrades in a shared vision of success and a life built on shared dreams.
In the tapestry of our professional and personal lives, the threads of collaboration, trust, and shared ambition have woven a story that continues to unfold. The decision to join forces with Robert, my husband, and embark on this entrepreneurial adventure remains one of the most defining chapters of my career and our life together. I look forward to the continued growth and success that lie ahead for our dynamic partnership in business and in life.
Contact Info:
- Website: robthebroker.com
- Instagram: Vanessa.saenz
- Facebook: Vanessa Saenz
- Youtube: XSellence Realty
- Other: HelotesPM on Instagram