Customer Support
Getting Started in Rental Housing
Navigating a new career in the multifamily rental housing industry comes with exciting opportunities, especially for those — like me — committed to professional growth. Multifamily property management is dynamic and fast-moving, so making the most of available resources has been the key to my success. Understanding my career path and other potential opportunities led me toward setting clear goals and regularly assessing where I stood. Right from the start, I dedicated time to education and training, completing certifications, attending industry seminars, and joining local, state, and national apartment association committees. Additionally, I invested in finding the right mentors within the industry who have helped guide me to the best version of myself. By continuously building my skills, expanding my network, and deepening my knowledge, I have created a path to long-term success in this field. And you can, too!
The Importance of Building a Network
Networking is everything when it comes to career growth in the rental housing industry. In this field, connections don’t just open doors — they unlock opportunities I might not have known existed. However, networking isn’t just about collecting business cards or adding people on LinkedIn; it’s about building genuine relationships that can lead to mentorship, collaboration, and future job offers.
Attending industry events — especially educational conferences at my local, state, and national associations — has been a game-changer. These events have helped expand my professional circle and stay on top of the latest trends and opportunities in property management. Staying competitive in this ever-evolving field isn’t just about what I know — it’s about who I know and how I engage with my network.
The Impact of Volunteering
Volunteering inside and outside my company has helped foster my growth and leadership in the multifamily industry. It’s not just about networking — it’s about expanding my knowledge, sharing my expertise, and taking charge of my learning.
By choosing committees in apartment associations that align with my goals, I have gained fresh industry insights while teaching others from my own experience. Whether it’s legislative affairs or education-focused groups, I stay engaged, informed, and connected.
This hands-on involvement keeps me ahead of industry trends, sharpens my leadership skills, and opens doors to new opportunities — all while making a meaningful impact in the field.
Learning From State and National Associations
Taking charge of my career and getting involved with state and national rental housing associations was essential for my professional growth. Apartment associations offer top-tier education, certification programs, and networking events that continue to keep me sharp and connected — not to mention that participating in committees has helped me have a voice in where the industry goes.
By staying engaged, I stay ahead of industry best practices, build valuable skills, and position myself for leadership opportunities. As Teuila Hanson, LinkedIn’s Chief People Officer, aptly points out, “Talent leaders will thrive when they focus on skills development. This approach meets both organizational agility needs and employees’ growth aspirations.“
Taking Action for Career Advancement
Success in the rental housing industry doesn’t just happen — you have to take charge of your own growth. I regularly assess my skills, identify gaps, and seek out opportunities to level up. Connecting with local apartment associations has been invaluable for networking and professional development. Attending events and volunteering on committees gives me visibility and hands-on experience that helps shape my career.
I also engage with state and national organizations to gain broader industry insights, lobby for the rental industry, and understand how laws impact my clients. It also provides me with resources. However, mentorship has provided guidance and support from those who’ve been where I want to go. By being proactive, I continue to sharpen my skills, expand my network, and set myself up for long-term success.
Ready to invest in yourself and take your career to the next level? Visto makes it easy and affordable for individuals to grow their skills in apartment property management. Learn more today!
