Ryan Serhant didn’t become one of the most successful real estate entrepreneurs in the world by playing small. From starring in Million Dollar Listing New York to founding his own powerhouse brokerage, Serhant’s rise to fame is a case study in personal branding, hustle, and relentless execution.
Here are timeless lessons from Ryan Serhant for anyone ready to elevate their visibility, close high-ticket deals, and build a brand that sells itself.
1. Be the Product—and Sell It Like One
Ryan’s biggest lesson? You are the product. Whether you’re selling homes, services, or ideas—what people are really buying is you. His own personal brand became a magnet for luxury clients long before he launched his firm SERHANT., a company that redefines how real estate marketing and media can work together.
He teaches that being memorable, consistent, and high-energy is more powerful than any script.
2. Don’t Just Sell—Educate and Entertain
In today’s world, attention is currency. That’s why Ryan has leveraged multiple platforms—YouTube, TikTok, TV, and podcasts—not just to advertise, but to educate and entertain.
He suggests that every professional must think like a media company. If you scroll through his LinkedIn profile, you’ll notice how he blends market insights with personality, keeping his audience informed and emotionally connected.
If you’re not producing content, you’re invisible.
3. Follow-Up Until You Hear “No”—Then Keep Going
Most people quit after one follow-up. Ryan doesn’t. He’s famous for persistent follow-ups, layered touchpoints, and deep customer relationship building. He teaches: the fortune is in the follow-up—but it’s not just about frequency; it’s about adding value every single time.
Want proof? Watch how he engages his audience and clients on X (formerly Twitter) with motivational content, deal insights, and conversation starters that pull people in.
4. Think Like an Expansionist, Not a Specialist
Ryan believes you should expand before you’re ready. Start with your niche, but don’t stay there. He scaled his personal brand into a brokerage, a media company, an education platform, and now a global brand. He encourages professionals to look beyond their industry and ask: how can I own the category?
He turned every setback into opportunity—turning rejection into redirection.
5. Sell With Energy—It’s Contagious
Ryan’s #1 competitive advantage? Energy. Whether he’s cold-calling, filming content, or walking into a negotiation—he brings an energy that is focused, optimistic, and undeniable.
He says:
“No one wants to do business with someone who’s low-energy or unsure. You don’t need to be perfect, but you need to be passionate.”
Final Word: You’re Always One Bold Action Away
What separates the pros from the mediocre? Courage. Ryan Serhant’s success story is built on courage—leaving a career in acting, surviving tough real estate cycles, and launching a company with zero listings at the start.
His advice? Show up bigger than your fear. Be louder than your doubt. The market rewards those who play full out.