The sold-out March Membership Luncheon celebrated women in business, and according to BOMA President Melanie Bamba Milinkevich, this was the highest-attended luncheon in the last ten years. Shout out to our fabulous new venue, Farmer and the Seahorse, with its large capacity.

The panel, moderated by local reporter, Emmy winner, and real estate influencer Heather Myers, featured Tracie Hager of Innovative Industrial Properties, Paris Cox of Kearny Real Estate, Liz Howeth of Longfellow Real Estate Partners, and Monique Adley of BioMed Realty. Throughout the event, the panelists addressed challenging questions and shared their insights and advice.

Here are some of the key takeaways:

• The biggest challenges we face in our careers are often self-created problems like distrust or disbelief in ourselves. We must recognize our potential and give ourselves permission to learn, grow, and follow our hearts. 
• Surrounding yourself with people who see your strengths, believe in you, and celebrate your success is crucial. 
• A compliment is uplifting and easy to give, but honest, straightforward critique leads a person toward growth.
• For upper managers, a culture of education and development is crucial. For emerging professionals, it’s imperative to discover and advocate for your education. 
• The COVID pandemic helped establish a better work/life balance for many, permitting people to work at home while tending to sick kids or other life matters. The COVID pandemic made managing people more difficult, as expectations have shifted, and managing these changing expectations is important. 
• The benefits of BOMA are many and include a network of friends and trusted service providers, as well as unparalleled educational opportunities. 

Additionally, the panelists recommended several books and a podcast.

Books:

• “Kick Some Glass” by Jennifer Martineau and Portia Mount
• “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz
• “The Pivot Year” by Brianna Wiest

Podcast:

• Her First $100k by Tori Dunlap