Apartment industry veterans are encouraging the next generation to become more involved in association leadership.
When you're in your early 20s, sometimes just getting to workperiodis a win. But while some of America's youth are struggling to simply start their days, others are climbing the ladder in their local associations. Now, how do we get more young professionals on board?
"Finding committed, volunteer leadership has always been a struggle for any organization, and the apartment industry is no exception," says Alexandra Jackiw, CAPS, CPM, President of Indianapolis-based Milhaus Management. "The secret is to have a compelling story to tell the next generation about why involvement is important and how it will help them grow professionally."
It's a story NAA's Next Gen committee is committed to sharing. Chaired by Jeannette Cox, CAPS, and co-chaired by Chris Carter, CAM, the group formed last year to attract rising stars in mid- to upper-level leadership positions seeking to become more involved and engaged in NAA through leadership, community involvement, peer-to-peer socials and mentorship.
Recent committee activities included a Q&A session about how to get involved, held at the 2015 NAA Education Conference & Exposition last month in Las Vegas, as well as a community outreach project to help teens in need and a social event at the House of Blues.
"It's crucial for all the local associations to develop some type of program for the next generation of leaders and develop those channels to provide mentorship and guidance," says Carter, Regional Manager for Mount Pleasant, S.C.-based Carter-Haston Real Estate Services. "The key is getting people excited about coming and experiencing what NAAand their local associationshave to offer. When I'm out at meetings, I'm talking to different people and telling them that they need to step outside of their comfort zone and be a voice."
Carter says he began volunteering at the local level 12 years ago when he saw a need for new leadership. He's hopeful the NEXT GEN Committee will inspire a new wave of talent to do the same.
"Once I got hooked, I was sold on that aspect and giving my time to improve the association and others who I have been involved with over the years," he says.
Cox agrees, and says the best way industry veterans can encourage young professionals to get involved is by providing opportunities for engagement in areas they are passionate about.
"This generation desires experiences and wants to take charge of their future," says Cox, Vice President of Operations for Lenexa, Kan.-based Oddo Development Company Inc. "The best way for them to accomplish their goals is to surround themselves with peers and mentors who guide them along that path of success."
Moving On Up
Most kids don't dream of working in the apartment industry when they grow up. They don't even know it's an option.
"I think in the past it's been a struggle to find young leadership because many people started out in this industry with the intention of it being a 'side job,'" Cox says. "However, the industry has changed over the past couple of decades. With a much stronger education program, property management careers are becoming more attractive to young professionals as they see the potential growth and opportunity for the future."
Still, it can be intimidating when you're the new kid on the block. However, Cox says in a competitive environment, young professionals must take the initiative to put themselves out there.
"It is far more difficult to get where you want to go if no one knows where you want to go," she says. "You have to be willing to share it and ask for guidance. There are opportunities all around us; it's knowing how to recognize and take advantage of them."
"Don't be afraid to raise your hand and get involved," adds Katie Wrenn, Next Gen Committee member and Regional Training & Marketing Director, Eastern Region, for Jacksonville, Fla.-based Milestone Management. "While it may seem scary at first, you will quickly learn that the multifamily family is among the friendliest and open group of people and always willing to embrace a volunteer. Just ask!"
Carter says he found it helpful to remember that everyone started out in the same spot at some time in their career. "I think you just need to take that leap of faith," he says. "Once you make it, you won't look back."
For those who are willing to take that risk, Jackiw suggests taking the time to speak with local and national leaders to learn more about the organization-many of whom are involved with the NEXT GEN Committee.
"You also need to assess where your interests lie and what you are passionate about," she says. "For me, my passion for education was a natural bridge to involvement in an area of interest to me and where I thought I could make a difference."
Perhaps most important, though, is taking the opportunity to develop lifelong relationships with industry veterans.
"When you have the opportunity to learn from someone who has walked in your path before and can provide insight and experience you have yet to gain, it is incredibly valuable," Cox says. "I've had several mentors, and I continually maintain these relationships, as they are so important to my professional and personal development. It is amazing to me how many leaders in this association are so willing and giving of their time and knowledge, and who want to share it with young professionals to ensure a successful future."
Cox says imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. The next generation should be observant and learn from people whom they want to emulate. Also, be willing to hear criticism.
It takes a strong commitment of time and talentand may not seem like a high priority early in one's careerbut the benefits of volunteer leadership are tremendous.
Jackiw, for example, says because of her involvement in NAA, she has never had to "job search." "The jobs have always found me," she says.
Adds Carter, "In my journey, it was the business partners and friends who I met and how they have changed my life each and every day," he says.
"The great thing about getting involved on a local, state and national level is the wealth of information that you receive that affects our business each and every day. I knew nothing about legislation until I got involved on the local level and testified at hearings in front of my legislators."
Although the industry will always be looking for new leaders, Jackiw says the good news is that Millennials are the largest population cohort in history.
"I hope we can find some leaders from within that generation," she says. "Our job is to help them understand the importance of involvement and create opportunities for them to be involved. The old leadership needs to get out of the way to make room for the new leaders. We also need to make volunteerism meaningful so that everyone seeking to get involved understands that the paybacks are significant."
Lauren Boston is NAA's Staff Writer and Manager of Public Relations. She can be reached at 703-797-0678.