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Just Getting Started? Top Tips for Young Managers

Last week, NVAA hosted its “Best Practices for Young Managers” virtual event featuring a group of expert panelists. Moderated by Armani Mahoozi, president of Lux Flooring Specialists and NVAA Board Member, Courtney Hallihan, co-founder of Greater Goods Convenience; Swayzine Bryant, General Manager, AvalonBay Communities; Stu Shaginaw, Regional Vice President, Gates Hudson; and Jessica Mayo, Regional Manager, Dweck Properties all shared insightful tips for young managers looking to grow their careers.

The panel discussed the importance of mentorships, managing people with varying levels of experience, and how they charted their own path to success.

Ms. Bryant’s advice for success was to aim high and get exposure to all sides of the business while setting your intentions and then strategically working to achieve them. She encouraged attendees to make a good goal for themselves and let others know about it. She wanted people to know that she wasn’t sitting in a seat she wanted to stay in.

Mr. Saginaw offered that asking questions and being open to learning and listening from everyone was a key driver for success as well. On the subject of goals, he said that it was critical to not set goals and then put blinders on because you could miss other opportunities that may arise as well.

Driving without direction gets you nowhere was Ms. Hallihan’s advice. She encouraged attendees to be deliberate in their learning and to always be on the lookout for opportunities because in this industry they are available.

Ms. Mayo encouraged attendees to be on the lookout for role models and mentors and to ask them questions and be open to feedback. She said that mentors should be people willing to challenge you and encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and be willing to provide you with real constructive criticism. She also said that your goals can change as you learn and grow.

Didn’t get a chance to attend? Listen to the webinar now.

The event was hosted by the NVAA’s Young Professionals Network and featured the best and brightest next-generation leaders in the multifamily real estate field. Through innovative networking, and educational and volunteer opportunities, the group’s objective is to enrich the professional growth and career development of its members, ultimately promoting the success and health of the apartment industry in Northern Virginia. Stay tuned for more events from the Young Professionals Network.