BravoTV's Million Dollar Man Gets Social

I recently had the chance to catch up with star of reality BravoTV show “Million Dollar Listing,” Madison Hildebrand. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the show, it follows 3 young real estate magnates as they navigate the sales of multi-million dollar homes in über-exclusive areas such as Hollywood, Malibu and Beverly Hills. Breakout star Madison is not just a TV personality- he’s closed over $100 million in sales over the last few years, placing him in the top 2% of agents in the Coldwell Banker International family, and earning his place in REALTOR® magazine's "30 Under 30.”

One way in which Madison has grown his business is through embracing the social web to engage his potential clients and fans to grow his personal brand and business. Take a peek at what it takes to thrive in a business world where every social interaction is a high stakes make-or-break deal and how social media helped build his brand.

R2i: How did you first get into reality TV?

Madison: I was approached by the production team 5 years ago...just 6 months after getting my real estate license. I was asked to participate in one of 6 episodes along with 11 other Realtors.  After the first season, they changed the format of the show, and I've been along for the ride ever since.

R2i: Obviously, social media gives your audience and fans a more intimate view into your world…how do you feel about that?

Madison: Well, overall I feel grateful that social has become such a widely used tool by the public because I have access and control over what personal messages and personal experiences I can choose to share or remark on...while still keeping certain aspects of my life private. I've also found that over the last 5 years of being on reality TV, spanning the emergence of social, that my fans feel they are satisfied with the access that social media provides into my life and don't need to call my office.

R2i: You seem so grounded, how do you manage the separation between Madison the brand and Madison the person?

Madison: Most importantly, I take time to remember that the Madison on TV is still me...but it is only a piece of me. The true Madison is who I am inside and out on a day-to-day basis. When the cameras are on, and the fans reach out, and the opportunities are presented, I just remember that TV has opened these doors, and for that I’m grateful.

R2i: So, how many branded social profiles do you currently manage?