It takes a village to run a Management Rights.
In the months before Ryder, my son (or my menace as I like to call him) was born the phrase “it takes a village to raise a family” was conveyed to me on a daily basis. I would nod, politely smile but not really understanding the significance behind its meaning. Moving forward 15 months I now find myself saying the exact same sentence to those expecting mothers and it got me thinking, this is the same in our industry.
Management rights are not for the faint hearted. It is tough and can be particularly draining both mentally and emotionally, but we are all in it together. Our community spirit is full of support, guidance, advice, and most of all peers that want to see you succeed. Keeping connected with the industry and the people in it is crucial to running a successful management rights business, why you ask, let me share a scenario with you.
Mary and her husband Mark have just brought their first Management Rights. Before taking over they were advised to complete the ARAMA MRITP training course, which they did. The couple also attended several of the ARAMA educational evenings where they met and connected with industry specialists and veteran managers. Mary was also seen sipping on a few champagnes at the Ladies in Management Rights Luncheons. It is fair that before they had even begun they had made many contacts and I dare say, friends. The first week of their new venture they encountered a vast number of unexpected events, the events that no classroom can teach you. Mary went to her stack of business cards and started to call her new friends for assistance. Within the stack of card there was managers, lawyers, software companies and consultants, you name it she had it. The curve balls that were thrown at them were everted with the help of a village. If Mary and Mark did not connect, did not take the time to meet others, that first week would have almost broken them.
Veterans or new to this industry I believe it is vital to keep connected with your peers. My mum always said, “Everyone brings something to the table Kelley”. Not only is it valuable to get advice and ideas but to share and exchange war stories and realise we are not in it alone, we are in it together.
We are so fortunate to be provided with an abundance of different ways and events to stay connected, so take that uniform off, put on a fancy frock and get out to an industry event (disclaimer you do not need to wear a fancy frock)
This month’s article was inspired by International Women’s Day, so I feel there is no better way to conclude than by acknowledging and thanking the courageous, resilient, caring, and compassionate woman of our industry. The community we have formed is united, one full of support and encouragement towards each other and our goals. To say I am proud to be a part of our sisterhood is an understatement. From me to you, thank you for always inspiring me to be the best I can be.
HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY