Colorado Real Estate Journal - September 16, 2015
Let’s talk frankly. Why aren’t you in BOMA? Do you know what you are missing? I bet you don’t. I have been a BOMA member for more than 10 years now, and I have seen an evolution in the purpose of BOMA and its key strategies. But let me tell you why I belong to BOMA. BOMA is a great organization that supports building ownership and managers through advocacy, education and networking … oh, and fun for all the BOMA Allied members. Now in the 95th year in Denver, it is the oldest organization dedicated to the commercial office building market’s continued success. BOMA’s Allied members’ contributions are key to the success of BOMA’s efforts in advocacy and education. The networking opportunities that BOMA offers are, in turn, key to the Allied members. Without this partnership, BOMA would struggle to continue to be the leader it is today. BOMA has advocacy efforts at the national, state and local levels. So let’s ask, “What’s in it for me?” As a BOMA Allied member we have BOMA’s ear, they want to know what we know. As Allied partners, we often will hear of new rules or legislation being proposed that could negatively affect building ownership. The Allied members can communicate these issues and BOMA’s lobbying group can jump into action. I always like to share something – BOMA contributed heavily to help each of us within our own homes. BOMA fought and successfully reduced the Xcel rate increases starting in 2015. That was good for everyone and it was through the work of BOMA’s Government Affairs Committee and participation in the Colorado Energy Consumers Group that the increases were lowered. Education is important to BOMA. Allied partners are key to understanding each of their businesses and how that knowledge contributes to the BOMA membership. BOMA offers many seminars and opportunities to learn. Here are a few things I have learned this year. The Denver metro area has a strong economic forecast. Our economy has diversified and isn’t focused on only oil and gas. All types of businesses have come to Denver. Whether they have moved, expanded or are just a startup, Denver’s economy is strong. The construction industry is back and over 50,000 people a year are moving to the Denver metro area. Yes, housing costs are high, but multifamily apartment construction is everywhere and this is all caused by jobs. Denver has jobs! Networking within BOMA, working with the building ownership and property management, allows the Allied members not only the opportunity to learn but also to see the buildings’ value within the community. By joining committees, the interaction between Principal members and Allied members grows and develops into true business partnerships. We learn to work together as trusted partners. I did mention fun – well that is all about networking. The different events are where you get to know people better and have fun! Whether you play golf, attend a summer party or visit the latest venue in Denver, it’s always fun to get together informally with your colleagues. We are all working for a common goal … and these opportunities equate to fun in BOMA. Wow! That was wordy, but here is the real reason I belong to BOMA. I am with Western Paper Distributors. I know you can tell by the name we sell commercial janitorial supplies … not. BOMA has given me an open door to tell people what I do, it has allowed me to show my work ethic and allowed me to meet the key players in my industry. I am not the BOMA member who has lunch with the BOMA gang once a month. I participate, I join committees and I have had the opportunity to meet the great people who belong to this organization. I introduce myself as the lady who sells toilet paper, but you know what I sell. It has led to my success, not only within BOMA but in my career as well. This is about being a leader in your industry! Now ask yourself, are you confident you know all the key people in your industry? I do. Here are the ways you can become a confident member of BOMA: • Become a BOMA member. • Join committees and participate. • Be willing to learn and share what you know. Wow! That’s easy. It is a great organization, so why aren’t you a BOMA member?