2 minute read
President’s Perspective
Stephani Park, CAPS
Avenue 5 2020-2021 AAA President
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The Value of Industry Relationships
Ihave been fortunate to have spent my entire career in the multi-family industry. It amazes me that I have industry relationships that span 30+ years. As some of you know, I started my career as a receptionist at a Property Management Company in Houston. During this time, I was introduced to a supplier partner that would impact my life in many ways over the years. Professionally, he was always available to assist with projects and provide guidance no matter how big or small. At industry meetings at the local, state, or national levels, he always made sure to include me, introduce me, and made me feel welcomed. Personally, he has been a part of so many fun times - too many to highlight! But he also was there for me during the illness and loss of my Father. My life has been truly enriched by this relationship – that all I can say is “Oh Happy Day”!
As management operators, many of us would consider our supplier partners as one of our most valuable resources. Everything that we do for our residents and property owners could not be accomplished without services or goods provided by our supplier partners. We must recognize that creating a great partnership, goes both ways. I’ve often said “something is going to go wrong,” as no company has a perfect track record. Let’s face it, things happen… but it is how you communicate and navigate through a situation is that makes a great partnership.
During a recent conversation, I asked 3 of my closest friends, that also happen to be valued supplier partners: what are the most important elements to your management partner relationships? Their responses were perfectly consistent – they all shared: 1. Communication: open, honest, responsive, with strong follow thru 2. Opportunity: to earn the business and earn our trust 3. Accountability: setting expectations, understanding each other’s world/situation, and paying bills timely.
Most suppliers are only seeking an opportunity to earn the business, earn your trust. They want to be a resource in more than just the service that they provide, they are seeking honest communication and accountability. They want a true partnership and want to a resource of more than just the service they are providing.
Over time, these types of partnerships have proved to be life-long valued friendships and working relationships. The multifamily industry is filled with so many of these amazing people that are passionate about people and passionate about our industry. Don’t miss out on making these new connections and strengthening those partnerships with things like the AAA Trade Show. It is coming up in September, and it is an opportunity to support one another.
Thank you to all of our supplier partners!
Sincerely,
