Marketing and CommunicationsWhat are the benefits <strong>of</strong> apr<strong>of</strong>essional 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 pr<strong>of</strong>essionalism, your advanced level <strong>of</strong> skilland experience? Through certification, which willenhance your pr<strong>of</strong>essional influence, credibilityand effectiveness within the pr<strong>of</strong>ession and the<strong>Appraisal</strong> <strong>Institute</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Canada</strong> (AIC) organization.Since its inception in 1938, the AIC hasbeen entrusted with the advancement <strong>of</strong> ourpr<strong>of</strong>ession within the Canadian business community.Substantial progress has been made inthat direction, to the current date where 4242members are registered with the <strong>Institute</strong>. 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 pr<strong>of</strong>essional statuswhen we earn the AACI or CRA designation aftera structured regimen <strong>of</strong> candidacy within the<strong>Institute</strong>’s educational program in pr<strong>of</strong>essionalstudies, examination and experience.Being an accredited member <strong>of</strong> the AICensures that we maintain a lifelong learningexperience during our careers by means <strong>of</strong> amandatory continuing pr<strong>of</strong>essional 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 <strong>of</strong> your skills.I became a CRA under the guidance <strong>of</strong> theAIC in order to acquire the skills, knowledge,values and tools needed to provide pr<strong>of</strong>essionalservices 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 <strong>of</strong> the seriousthreats to our industry is fragmentation. Soleproprietorship has its benefits, but, as pr<strong>of</strong>essionals,we need to interact and learn fromeach other. Isolation can lead to stagnation.The AIC provides that vehicle for continuedlearning, networking and growth.One <strong>of</strong> the comments I <strong>of</strong>ten 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 pr<strong>of</strong>ession and ‘the times....they area changing.’ We need to be involved and <strong>of</strong>ferour time to assure our pr<strong>of</strong>ession is prepared forthose changes.I believe we need to keep our partnershipwith AIC active with our input and to grow withthe pr<strong>of</strong>ession. 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 <strong>of</strong> your career.If you have your AIC designation, I hope you areas proud <strong>of</strong> 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 <strong>Canada</strong>click here to return to table 0f contents
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