Create professional development programs that help REALTORS® strengthen their businesses.
Protect private property rights and promote the value of REALTORS®.
Advance ethics enforcement programs that increase REALTOR® professionalism.
Protect REALTORS® by providing legal guidance and education.
Stay current on industry issues with daily news from Illinois REALTORS®, network with other professionals, attend a seminar, and keep up with industry trends through events throughout the year.
Deena Zimmerman, 2012 Illinois Young Professionals Network (YPN) Chair
I have talked with many REALTORS® and other industry professionals since the New Year and it seems, to me at least, that EVERYBODY is absolutely swamped with new business…and business that is closing!
I think this is a great sign of a successful year to come. I truly believe with hard word and a positive attitude that only good things can happen.
Interestingly enough, in conversations with these same groups of people, the main topic of conversation has been exploring educational opportunities such as mini MBA’s and professional designations to help improve their skills.
I have started planning my advanced education and will begin classes for the CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) designation this April.
I am going to TOTALLY take advantage of this blog to keep you posted on my progress, and reach out to share milestones and get encouragement from time to time!
This is a very exciting time for me as a young professional. I will not only gain new skills and knowledge from the coursework to advance my career, but the networking opportunities I will have access to along the way will no doubt increase my bottom line!
I encourage you to explore designations you are interested in.
Designations are proven to increase REALTORS® bottom lines and give you a level of expertise that puts you ahead of your competitors when you are lobbying for new business.
In exploring the CCIM designation, I found several opportunities to apply for scholarships, both through the CCIM institute and my local association, and I am proud to announce I received a scholarship from the institute to take my first class. The financial aspect is an understandable concern, but there are many opportunities on both a local and national level to receive financial assistance. Be sure to check into those options.
Don’t forget to tap into networks like the Young Professionals Network (YPN) to find other REALTORS® exploring educational opportunities like myself. Find Illinois YPNs on Facebook and check out your local, state and national association websites for events and forums.
