PRESIDENT’S CORNER: Adapting to Industry Changes

The foundation of my installation speech when I accepted the position as your President for 2016 was, in part, to address the widespread resistance to change among our members. I acknowledged the fundamental desire of all individuals, no matter what profession, to avoid what is unfamiliar and continue with what is most comfortable. I truly believed that “fear of the unknown” would hold us back as an industry, a people and a nation.

This year, however, has proven me wrong. All our members embraced new initiatives with such enthusiasm that I could not be more pleased as I approach the last month of my term. Beginning with a new location, a new website, a new member portal and ending with the adoption of a Manhattan Chapter, I could not have asked for more.

As your Board President I also hold a seat as a Director at the National Association of Realtors along with three other members of HGAR. Last week, NAR held its convention in Orlando FL where change was also in the air. A new program to elevate the professionalism of Realtors was introduced and for the first time in 17 years, the Delegate Body was asked to vote on significant changes to the current composition of the Board of Directors. One proposed amendment would have shifted Directors away from large local associations to large state associations. It would reduce our four current directorships to two giving, us less representation on the national level and weakening our ability to rally support for or against our issues. Although this proposed change did not pass, it is another instance whereby significant change is at the forefront.

So my point is simple. Change is inevitable and ultimately healthy for us. We must accept change to succeed and evolve as real estate professionals. We must anticipate change and adapt as quickly as possible. I have learned this year that change is a good thing and I applaud those who embrace it. However, I have also learned that change should occur if it is positive in nature, and not just for the sake of doing something different. So we also need to be a part of the process to ensure that any contemplated change is helping to move our industry forward in a positive and progressive manner.

Marcene Hedayati
Marcene Hedayati is 2016 President of the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors, Inc.