Book 4 - Appraisal Institute of Canada

Marketing and CommunicationsWhat are the benefits of aprofessional designation?By Lora Wylie, CRAMember, Marketing & Communications CommitteeIn today’s rapidly changing and increasinglycompetitive workplace, distinguishingyourself from the competition can be challengingto say the least. How can you illustrateyour professionalism, your advanced level of skilland experience? Through certification, which willenhance your professional influence, credibilityand effectiveness within the profession and theAppraisal Institute of Canada (AIC) organization.Since its inception in 1938, the AIC hasbeen entrusted with the advancement of ourprofession within the Canadian business community.Substantial progress has been made inthat direction, to the current date where 4242members are registered with the Institute. Ofthese, 39% are AACIs, 30% are CRAs, and 29%are Candidates.The path to designation provides muchmore than an education; it exposes you toexperience, networking opportunities andenhances your ability to communicate. Theseimportant tools assist you in staying currentwithin an ever-changing industry.Designated appraisers are held to higherstandards, given the rigorous educationaland ethical backgrounds required to earn theaccreditation. We achieve our professional statuswhen we earn the AACI or CRA designation aftera structured regimen of candidacy within theInstitute’s educational program in professionalstudies, examination and experience.Being an accredited member of the AICensures that we maintain a lifelong learningexperience during our careers by means of amandatory continuing professional developmentprogram.If you are working toward your designation,be proud, as it says to potential employers and“The path todesignation providesmuch more thanan education; itexposes you toexperience, networkingopportunities andenhances your ability tocommunicate.”clients that you are not satisfied with the statusquo and demonstrates your competence andcommitment through designation. While youcertainly do not NEED a designation to be agreat appraiser, it does provide an independentvalidation of your skills.I became a CRA under the guidance of theAIC in order to acquire the skills, knowledge,values and tools needed to provide professionalservices expected by my current and prospectiveclients. Joining the AIC and obtaining myCRA designation has enriched me immenselythrough growth and friendship, as well as skilland experience. I acquired my designation,but, equally as important, I have developedstrong networking relationships with appraisersthroughout the country that would nothave been possible otherwise. These bondshave helped me become a better appraiser....and yes, they have also enhanced my businesssuccess. I personally feel one of the seriousthreats to our industry is fragmentation. Soleproprietorship has its benefits, but, as professionals,we need to interact and learn fromeach other. Isolation can lead to stagnation.The AIC provides that vehicle for continuedlearning, networking and growth.One of the comments I often hear is that theAIC lacks leverage and influence. Many complain,but few act. I would say to all appraisers...GET INVOLVED. We are facing a critical juncturewithin our profession and ‘the times....they area changing.’ We need to be involved and offerour time to assure our profession is prepared forthose changes.I believe we need to keep our partnershipwith AIC active with our input and to grow withthe profession. If you are working toward yourdesignation, it is a journey you will not regret,as you watch the benefits continue to evolveand multiply throughout the life of your career.If you have your AIC designation, I hope you areas proud of it as I am – it identifies you as a realproperty expert.Marketing & CommunicationsCommitteeBeverley Girvan, AACI – ChairJoanne Hayes, AACIKathleen Ellis, AACILora Wylie, CRALaura Kemp, CandidateDavid Babineau, AACI, FellowTo contact this committee, email:communications@aicanada.ca28Canadian Property Valuation Volume 54 | book 4 | 2010 Évaluation Immobilière au Canadaclick here to return to table 0f contents