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September 2009
Index of all
messages
from the Association President
AAR members make a difference for themselves and others
By Barb Cline, AAR President
It has been nearly a year since I was installed as president of the Aurora Association of REALTORS®. It is hard to believe how quickly the year passed by. It has truly been my honor to serve as your president and a real privilege to work with our Board of Directors and the AAR staff.
As I look back at the President’s Messages I wrote for you to read, I hope I have given you a few valuable bits of information. Our theme this year has been “You Make the Difference.” I have tried to show you the many ways that you make the difference in your own life and the lives of those around you.
Get involved, educated
I encouraged you to get involved in our Association. Many of you did, making for fresh, new faces at marketing meetings and other events. I am glad you’re participating more. Thank you!
I also encouraged you to educate yourselves and your clients. Many of you did that, too. Attendance is up at the Association’s Lunch and Learns and other continuing education classes. Good for you!
Support PSF, learn about your clients
I explained to you where your dues dollars go and how they ensure protection and support at the local, state and national level. I explained the value of our Political Survival Fund (PSF) and asked you to contribute your fair share. As a united group with one voice, we do make a difference.
I encouraged you to really know your clients’ motivation. If you truly understand what puts them in the marketplace, you can better meet their needs and make a difference. I gave you tips for getting your offers accepted. How you present offers and with what information does make a difference.
Build your business, set goals
I reminded you that your character and competence help you build your referral network and therefore, your business. When you work hard to be involved and know your work – that is, fully understand your part of the business – you do make the difference.
I urged each of you to set goals for yourself and your business. By having clearly-defined and measurable goals, you make the difference.
Communicate by writing, listening
Communication skills are paramount to making the difference in the lives of those around you. I wrote about the value of a handwritten note of congratulations or thanks to an acquaintance, family member or friend. Did you, indeed, write a note to someone? I hope you did. As you write those heartfelt notes, you will see how wonderful it is that something so easy can make such a difference. Another component of good communication skills is listening well. Did you suspend your activities to make eye contact and give the speaker 100 percent of your attention? Were you able to listen and respond without judgment?
Adjust your attitude
I also wrote about the value of a positive attitude. You choose your own attitude and you do make the difference when yours is positive.
You will be hearing more about attitude as your leadership changes. Incoming President David Barber’s theme is Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes. Mark your calendar now and plan to attend AAR’s Inaugural Celebration Sat., Sept. 26 as he and his team begin the 2009-2010 leadership year. It’s a great way to jumpstart your year with networking, food, entertainment and fun. Simply put, attend the Inaugural to get to know fellow professionals in AAR with whom you WILL be doing business!
I thank you for the opportunity to serve as your 2009 President and I wish each of you success in the year to come.
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