Lita’s Insights: Lessons in Leadership and Lifelong Learning

Networking, a term that often elicits a mix of excitement and anxiety, is a crucial aspect of personal and professional growth. Attending some of our favorite events, like the Professional Women in Building (PWB) and Urban Land Institute (ULI) meetings, not only offer a wealth of knowledge but also provide a unique platform for networking. In this blog, Lita shares her perspective on the importance of networking and delves into the key takeaways from a few recent events.

Takeaways from PWB Women’s Conference:

The 3rd annual PWB Women’s Conference focused on a power-packed panel featuring Kate Bailey, Founder – TARRA; Sarah McDaniel, “The Rainmaker”- BAC & Ferguson Enterprises; and Danielle Shoots, Founding Partner & Director – New Community Transformation Fund. Lita highlights that people, regardless of their titles or positions, are fundamentally just people. The apprehension that accompanies networking is a universal sentiment. It’s a challenge many face, including those who attended the PWB meetings. The realization that everyone in the room likely shares similar feelings can serve as a powerful antidote to nervousness.

“As someone who identifies as shy, I found that planning ahead with key words, ideas, or conversation starters significantly eased my anxiety.”

Setting goals for oneself before attending an event is another effective strategy. Goals act as a guiding force, helping to maintain focus amid the bustling atmosphere of networking events. For instance, a goal-driven individual might aim to meet two new people and reconnect with four or five friends. This not only provides a sense of purpose but also turns the networking experience into a more manageable and rewarding endeavor.

Engaging in conversations can be challenging, especially with new faces.

“To alleviate this, I adopted the practice of preparing 2-3 questions in advance.”

Questions like “What new and exciting projects are you working on?” serve as excellent icebreakers, fostering dialogue and creating connections. These intentional questions not only ease the flow of conversation but also showcase genuine interest in the other person’s experiences and perspectives.

Inspiring Insights from ULI Meetings:

The ULI program also shed light on the technological landscape, with discussions on AI and the evolving mindset of the younger generation. The concept of “FOBO – Fear of Being Obsolete” highlighted the importance of staying abreast of technological advancements. The reference to the internet being considered a fad in 1995 serves as a compelling reminder to stay tuned to emerging trends and remain adaptable in the ever-evolving real estate industry.

Deborah Blake, Principal at The Ipsum Group, and Peter Dennehy, Senior VP at John Burns Research and Consulting, analyzed the 55+ demographics and evolving age-qualified communities. The emphasis on psychographics over demographics resonated as a crucial insight. Understanding the aspirations and dreams of the active adult demographic is pivotal in designing communities and amenity spaces that truly cater to their needs.

In conclusion, attending events like PWB and ULI meetings not only provides a wealth of information but also serves as an invaluable opportunity for networking and building relationships. Overcoming networking apprehensions, setting goals, and initiating meaningful conversations are key strategies for a successful networking experience. We pride ourselves on paying close attention to what is new, what is relevant and being able to guide our clients in an intentional, positive, and profitable way into the future.