Emerging Leader Hannah Smith Attends Apartmentalize

Hannah Smith is a Senior Property Manager with Pillar Properties and is a part of WMFHA's Kari Anderson Emerging Leaders first year cohort. Hannah had the opportunity to attend the National Apartment Association's Apartmentalize Conference in June, so we asked her to share a bit of her experience.

Was this your first time attending Apartmentalize?

Yes.

What was the highlight of your week?

Seeing our senior vice president, Diana, and our marketing director, Sierra, speak on a panel was a profoundly enriching experience. Observing their dynamic presentation style and hearing their strategic insights offered me a deeper understanding of effective leadership principles and strategic decision-making in our organization. It was inspiring to witness firsthand how they articulate vision, navigate complex challenges, and engage with diverse audiences, which has further motivated me to enhance my own leadership skills and strategic thinking abilities.

What were some of the takeaways from the sessions you attended?

The most enlightening session I attended was the "Renewal Revolution: Unconventional Paths to Long Term Success." Addressing retention challenges in our south end has been a significant focus, and I found it particularly engaging to explore innovative strategies and novel approaches aimed at bolstering tenant retention. The session provided valuable insights into creative tactics and initiatives that could potentially transform our approach to resident retention, offering fresh perspectives and actionable ideas to enhance our efforts effectively.

Did you make connections with any new suppliers that you might use in the future?

Absolutely! I had the opportunity to meet with Bilt Rewards and found their program quite intriguing. They've developed a distinctive reward and point system designed to incentivize residents who consistently pay their rent on time. Personally, I believe implementing a rewards system for on-time payments is a brilliant strategy, especially given the recent increase in delinquency rates, particularly since the onset of COVID-19. It not only encourages timely payments but also enhances tenant satisfaction and loyalty, which are crucial in maintaining a stable and thriving community environment.

Any other thoughts or comments that you have about the conference that you would like to share?

Attending this conference was an incredibly enjoyable experience for me. It provided a fantastic opportunity to engage in networking and deepen connections with industry peers. I thoroughly enjoyed exchanging ideas and perspectives, learning about new trends and innovations, and exploring potential collaborations that could benefit our team. Beyond the professional insights gained, the conference also allowed for valuable bonding time with my colleagues. Whether during sessions, team dinners, or casual conversations, I appreciated the chance to strengthen our relationships and foster a stronger sense of camaraderie. Overall, the conference was not only enlightening but also a lot of fun, reinforcing my passion for networking and the importance of team cohesion in achieving collective success.