Picture this – circa late 1970s newly licensed REALTORS® in Toledo. No mobile phones, PCs, tablets, key box/lockbox, or internet. We had to drive from office to office to get the key for each listing and walk through 14 inches of snow just to show the property.
We went through a week-long new agent orientation and were sent off to our respective offices. Once there, my manager gave me three thick books: MLS for sale, MLS sold, and MLS expired. He told me to cross reference the three books and use the Criss Cross book (anyone remembers the Criss Cross?) to call anyone, not in the sold or the for-sale books.
I received my license at a very young age – I could only drink 3.2 beer! I certainly did not think about leadership opportunities, which were scarce at that time. Today there is a big difference in leadership opportunities than in the ‘70s. Today, we have a clear path toward leadership, utilizing committees, area associations, and groups like NAREB, Realtist, AREAA and YPN. Within Columbus REALTORS®, there are additional leadership opportunities with tremendous value: Leadership Academy, OR/NAR Leadership Academy, leadership retreats, and committee involvement with the potential of becoming a chair or vice-chair.
With numerous options available to you as a future leader, it is important to leverage every avenue. This is your business, your community, and your association.
Within the real estate community, as mentioned above, you have excellent opportunities for growth as a leader, and we hope that our members will take full advantage of the platforms available to them. Each organization – whether it is focused on social justice, networking, or both – is creating mentorship, best practice and education platforms. Each will offer a wide spectrum of services and support for future leaders and sales professionals in our industry.
At Columbus REALTORS®, we have a solid foundation and a stellar history of supporting the growth of our future leaders, the decision makers who continue to drive organized real estate and Columbus REALTORS® forward. Strong leadership is absolutely vital to our foundation. It will help protect private property rights and the livelihood of our members; and it will keep Columbus and central Ohio at the forefront, leading the way to equitable and positive change!
If you have a strong interest in leadership opportunities or if you simply have questions, please reach out to your directors and staff liaisons. They can help guide you on your path for growth. Your commitment and involvement will create ‘2021: a Vision Beyond’!
