By Tamara Kiehl
Greetings! This year I am honored to serve all the Affiliates at Greater Tampa REALTORS® (GTR), as the Affiliate Director. Being an Affiliate brings great reward and longlasting relationships. There are so many benefits to being a member of such a great organization! Instead of hearing from me about all the benefits this year, you will hear it from other affiliate members. To kick us off is the 2020 Affiliate of the Year, Char Knetsch, with Brown & Associates Law & Title, P.A. and I sat down, virtually, for an interview. It was such a joy to speak with her and gain her insight and experience! Char has been a member of GTR for 25 Years! WOW! She began as a REALTOR®, and remained one when she made the switch to title. Here’s how the interview went:
Tammy: Many Affiliates join thinking they will receive a return immediately. What advice do you have for them?
Char: Yes. In my tenure with GTR, there have been times when I have thought, “What am I getting?” One of the challenges is that many REALTORS® are already loyal to relationships they have built over the years. Yet, I have discovered that not everyone can be everything. Each of us have our own unique niches we bring to the table. That is what they should focus on, and it is ok to be another choice for the REALTORS®.
Tammy: As a member, what kinds of sponsorships do you take advantage of or recommend?
Char: We are a Platinum Sponsor and with that will take advantage of all opportunities available. But whatever level of sponsorship you have, there are many opportunities. Sponsor classes and events! Even now via Zoom, take advantage of the opportunities. And create your own. Host Happy Hours, lunch and learns, and join task forces or committees. The key is to make yourself available and be visible.
Tammy: What advice would you give to a new member or someone looking to be a member especially in this new normal way of networking?
Char: You want your business to come from successful people and you want a successful business. It is all about being available, accessible and accountable. I would say to the person looking to become a member – DO IT! To the new member I would say, “Keep showing up. Keep sponsoring, attending and remain visible. It is all about perseverance. Do not give up!
Congratulations to our Affiliate of the Month:
February: Hannah Padgett – Pinch Hitter Coordinators
March: Kenny McLaurin – McLaurin Inspections
