We’ve all been there. That one space just won’t lease. Your pipeline’s gone stale. You’ve called the usual suspects. You’ve followed up five times. Crickets. When that happens, it’s time to shake things up. Here are 5 creative ways I personally use to revive a sluggish prospecting plan—and yes, they WORK: You never know where your next lease will come from—so keep your eyes open, your questions sharp, and your mindset bold. Now go get that deal. Rockstar style.

With social media, CRMs, and AI tools everywhere, you’d think canvassing would be dead. Guess what? It’s not. In fact, it works better now than ever. There is no substitute for face-to-face connection. Showing up in person still breaks through the noise faster than any email, DM, or ad campaign. That’s why canvassing is a non-negotiable in my weekly routine. My goal? Three hours or thirty business cards, whichever comes first. And yes, I still hit the street every week. Here’s the kicker. I’ve been in my market since 1997, and I still learn something new every time I canvass. I find a use I hadn’t thought of, meet a business I never noticed, or spot a sign I hadn’t seen before. Excuses like “I don’t have time,” “it’s too hot,” or “I’m nervous” don’t cut it. Unless you live on another planet, canvassing is still your fastest path to real leads and real results. Rockstar agents know it, and they do it. One more thing. The best time to canvass? When it’s pouring rain. Retailers have more time, they’re happy to talk, and they’ll respect the hustle. So grab your umbrella and get out there. It’s time to earn

If you’re not using Facebook to prospect tenants, you’re leaving deals – and dollars – on the table. Full stop. I’ve been leasing retail for over 33 years, and let me tell you – nothing, and I mean nothing, delivers like Facebook DMs. I’m seeing a 33% response rate within 24 hours. Where else are you getting that kind of engagement? Exactly. Nowhere. Here’s why it works: 95% of small business owners manage their own Facebook pages. So when you send a message, you’re going straight to the decision-maker – no gatekeeper, no noise. And because Facebook’s algorithm rewards fast responders, they’re often quick to write back. 💡 Rockstar Tips: And don’t sleep on Instagram – while it’s more image-driven, the DM function is still gold if your message and timing are right. Bottom line: Facebook isn’t optional anymore – it’s essential. If you’re serious about leasing space and reaching real decision-makers fast, it’s time to ditch the excuses and slide into those DMs.

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all marketing – today, the riches are in the niches. If you’re blasting out the same post on every platform, hoping the right prospect sees it, you’re doing it wrong. Rockstars know that specificity wins. Want a taco shop? Say that. Want 2nd-gen medical? Target that. Social media prospecting should be laser-focused – and platform-specific:✔️ Use Yelp when canvassing restaurants.✔️ Use Craigslist for second-gen restaurant or office space (don’t forget hood size & ampage!).✔️ Use Facebook & Instagram to reach mom & pops (they’re not on LinkedIn).✔️ Use Nextdoor to crowdsource recommendations—have your friends ask around, too.✔️ Use LinkedIn for national and iconic local retailers.✔️ Use DMs over email blasts when prospecting. Prospects aren’t starving for information – they’re drowning in it. Break through the noise by being ultra-targeted in your messaging and channel selection. And here’s the kicker: if you’re not actively building a social media brand as a leasing agent? You’re already behind. CRE is shifting fast. Time to get niche, get visible, and get leasing!