For association executives under 40, and others seeking insights into how younger AEs view the industry, NAR launched the AE YPN (Young Professional Network) with an inaugural meeting at the REALTORS® Conference & Expo in New Orleans.

“The current plan is to host an AE YPN gathering at all three NAR
meetings, with the next opportunity being the 2011 AE Institute in Dallas,” says the group’s chairperson, Chris Carrillo, e-PRO, CEO of CRIS Regional MLS, Ohio.

The new AE YPN Facebook page now has more than 50 fans and is used primarily to communicate with young AEs who can’t travel to NAR meetings.

The AE YPN group aims to foster networking among younger AEs and help them stay engaged with the national association. “What we saw lacking was a place or group of younger professionals to come together, share experiences, and perhaps form a different perspective on issues and trends affecting the industry,” says Carrillo. “If you are newer to the industry, it can be intimidating to be thrust into a group of experienced executives and be forthcoming with your opinions and thoughts.”

Not surprisingly, much of the discussion at the first AE YPN meeting revolved around the use of next-generation technology, but the group also touched on generational diversity, how to do more with less in the current economy, and the importance of social media. “Our discussions seem to be more free flowing and open rather than having one speaker,” he says, and the focus is sharing and learning through each other.”

The next AE YPN meeting is at the AE Institute; all AEs are welcome to attend.

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