Earlier this week the Board introduced a new meeting series, Member Engagement Meetings (MEM), hosted by FVREB officers: Chair Narinder Bains, Chair-Elect Jeff Chadha, and Vice-Chair Ishaq Ismail. The idea behind the series is to provide more opportunities for members to engage directly with Board leadership, to share feedback on initiatives and developments and to enhance dialogue and communication with membership. The first of the two sessions took place on July 31.
Officers welcomed a broad mix of members, committee volunteers, brokers, and directors, and shared the latest Board updates, including the return of the FVREB Golf Tournament on September 7, in partnership with the Fraser Valley REALTORS® Charitable Foundation; the PacificWest Conference taking place from October 3 to 5; as well as the introduction of more robust cybersecurity measures.
The engaging and lively back-and-forth also covered a range of topics on members’ minds, from governance to artificial intelligence. Early feedback on the event was one of appreciation and a desire for more opportunities for enhanced communication that gives voice to members’ thoughts and concerns.
Highlights included:
- Proposed Bylaws
While bylaws are designed to move the Board into the future, the membership hopes to have more in-depth conversations prior to the AGM. Introducing two-year terms for the Chair and Vice Chair and proxy voting were hot topics of discussion.
- Diversity and Representation
Attendees noted that the Board of Directors would be well served by greater representation of women in leadership. Some feel that the Board Development Committee should place a greater emphasis on diversity in its decision-making process.
- Technology
FVREB aims to remain competitive and on the cutting edge of technology, as reflected in the many technology-based initiatives. Topics of discussion included CREA WEBForms®, Paragon, and Showing Time.
- Member Involvement and Professionalism
Attendees reflected on low engagement during recent Board events. The general view is that the Board’s business is members’ business, too. Members need to participate as part of their professional success.
FVREB Board Chair Narinder Bains said, “We genuinely want to hear what members have to say, and this meeting gives you opportunities to provide feedback – the key purpose is to make sure your voices are heard!”
Look for event posts on your social media channels – and watch for details in your Inbox to register and attend the next MEM on September 21!