After the GAAR & SWMLS Boards of Directors held their March meetings, they provided the following updates.
Board of Directors Highlights for March 2025
The GAAR Directors established a clear course for the rest of 2025. With CEO Ryan Swinney entering his third month, the Board opted to extend the current strategic plan and postpone a formal planning session, giving him additional time to assess the Association and provide informed recommendations.
Three areas we’ll focus on for the remainder of 2025:
1. Communications: Clean, Clear & Connected
This year, we’ll focus on “spring cleaning” our member database to ensure your contact information is current. We’ve also had some members unsubscribe from GAAR emails—so we’ll be rolling out opportunities for those members to opt back in. Our goal? Boost our current impressive email open rate from 40% to 45% by year’s end.
2. Education: Learning on Your Schedule
We’re exploring on-demand classes. A member would be able to start a course and complete it at their own pace, whether an hour at a time or all in one go. While you’ll still need to complete a course to earn CE credit, we hope this flexible format encourages members to go beyond the minimum and invest more in their professional growth.
3. Advocacy: Expanding Member Engagement
We’ve seen success with our RECPAC & RPAC efforts, but we know we can do more. This year, we’re looking into new ways to involve members in our advocacy initiatives. Be on the lookout for details on how to get involved!
Other News: New Mics for the Event Center
The Board approved the purchase of new microphones for the Event Center. While we initially tried to integrate our old AV system into the new space, we’ve realized that updated equipment is necessary to provide clear audio throughout our larger venue.
Board of Directors Highlights for March 2025
Product Review
Every year, SWMLS reviews its product offerings and vendor contracts to ensure we’re delivering value to our subscribers. That review process is underway and we're evaluating which tools are making a difference—and which might be ready for retirement. One tool the Board has decided not to renew is Rental Beast. Stay tuned for more details.
Training & Support
The right tools are great, but only if you know how to use them. That’s why SWMLS is hosting Tech Tune-Ups—offered on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays each month from 10 am to 12 pm. No appointment is needed; just drop in for one-on-one support.
We’re proud to offer this kind of support and will keep looking for ways to help you get the most out of your MLS tools.
Comments