In the last few years, I have met volunteers who have served 10, 20 and even 30 years on their boards of directors. I’ve worked with several volunteer leaders who have served as president — on four separate occasions. These volunteers need to be applauded for their outstanding dedication and contribution. One of the reasons … Continued
It’s March 2015 and I’m doing my income tax return and I ask myself; do I value the Canada Revenue Agency or not? Well, that depends on whether I’m getting a refund or not. In other words, what’s in it for me? I think the same holds true for executive committees; are they a good … Continued
Have you ever wanted and waited for something to happen and finally it did? I’m talking about consolidation of MLS® in Ontario, where all REALTORS® will have seamless access to all MLS® information. Yes, we’ve had some fine examples of information sharing and common MLS® data bases like in Toronto/GTA, Ottawa/Renfrew and London/Tillsonburg. But there … Continued
We could all go on about the clichés like “loose lips sink ships” or “be careful with the words you use”, but the main message is what you say reflects on everyone. I hear this frequently when it comes to REALTORS® or volunteer leaders…..people not being careful about what they say. Ok, let me give … Continued
It’s been one heck of a busy spring/summer schedule for most of us…both for association staff and volunteer leaders. We’ve either been in the office, travelling in our car or attending meetings. Just recently, we tried to get five people to attend a meeting and over a two-month period, they only had one day when all … Continued
At least annually, real estate associations hold voting meetings to elect directors, approve Bylaws or accept audited financial statements. Most often the voting is done at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). For some, AGM might mean Aggravating General Meeting. This is often true, not only for the members and voting delegates, but for those leaders … Continued
Last week’s Leadership blog posed some real estate questions to get your brain working. This week we have the answers… 1) What was MLS® called starting in 1951 (yeah, I was around then, barely)? Answer: MLS Photo Co-Op 2) What does MDMS stand for? Answer: Moore Data Management System, an MLS vendor that … Continued
Some of these go back quite a while – answers will be in next week’s blog. 1) What was MLS® called starting in 1951 (yeah, I was around then, barely)? 2) What does MDMS stand for? 3) Name the first real estate board in Ontario with an Internet accessed, browser-enabled MLS® system … Continued
“I’m Crazy Busy” Have you heard a real estate board president say that lately? Unfortunately, it is an all too common refrain, especially now as most presidents are about to complete their first trimester. AGM’s, board meetings, director orientation, strategic planning, OREA and CREA conferences – Wow, their schedule would make our Prime Minister look … Continued
I’ve just watched the closing ceremonies of the 2014 Winter Olympics and reflect on what you and I will remember about these games, not just today, but in the future. For me, it will not be the total medal count or the number of Gold medals. It will be the Canadian speed skater who gave … Continued