Colorado Real Estate Journal - September 16, 2015
Industries are constantly changing. Education is important for people to stay current with the latest developments, skills and new technologies required for their fields. In order to be effective, property managers need to be knowledgeable in so many different disciplines – law, accounting, architecture, tenant relations, mechanical systems, construction, leasing, technology, etc. The list is endless. Here are some reasons why you should educate yourself now and continue your education in the future. 1. Career Advancement. It is important to ensure that your knowledge and skills are up to date with the trends affecting your industry so your existing employer will continue to view you as a valuable asset. An excellent way to demonstrate to employers that you are committed to your career is by going back to school – even better if the employer pays for it! By investing time and money in continuing your education, you will send a powerful message to employers that you are serious about improving your education and applying new skills to your job, therefore increasing your long-term value. 2. Money. Did I say money? More education usually translates into more money. Census surveys show that those with higher levels of education make around 50 percent more a year than people with only lower-level education. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, property and real estate managers could anticipate a 12 percent growth in career opportunities between 2014 and 2022. The average annual wage for these professionals was $65,880 in May 2014, according to the BLS. 3. Marketability. In property management, properties are bought and sold frequently. It is to your benefit to be up on all the current trends and technologies in a constantly changing real estate world. Obtaining your RPA and/or real estate license and reading various real estate publications regularly makes sure you are appealing to a new owner. Final Notes One of my favorite sayings is, “We are the average of the five people we spend the most time with.” Surround and associate yourself with successful peers. Find positive, smart, hard working, honest, funny people that inspire you. Be open minded enough to know that you do not always have the correct answer but are willing to find it. Never stop learning. I will leave you with a Nelson Mandela quote that I like, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” Sounds good to me!