Hmm, change: a sort of daunting word that provokes a shudder or at the very least a sigh. Daunting because it means making major adjustments to what we know so well. It means work; it means “new.” Change may not always be comfortable, but it is necessary to grow, to rejeuvenate, and to succeed.

Therefore, instead of suggesting how change may be something you should consider in your work environment, I’ll tell you of changes I’ve made. Producing Bay State REALTOR® is a labor of love. Together with production, sales, and design staff, I produce each issue with the intent to provide an interesting, informative, and eye-catching magazine. The editorial is different in each issue, but many elements have stayed the same for some time. It’s time for a change.

This issue officially launches a newly refreshed design and layout of Bay State REALTOR®. The changes create a contemporary, clean look to the magazine, integrating more brief articles on the industry and association amidst thoughtful and timely columns and feature articles. It’s newly organized for easy readability and access to sales and marketing tools; legal information you need to know; member feedback; and association news and events. The change altered our production schedule and made our work flow more challenging, but it will only make the publication better. That was our mission in making the changes, and we hope you agree. And, if you do agree or see ways we can futher improve, we welcome your feedback at bsr@marealtor.com.

Now that I’ve shared my growing pains, how about joining me with a challenge of your own? This issue’s special section is all about educating yourself and making the changes you need to keep up with the evolving market.
Furthering your education by taking a designation course, continuing education courses, or specialty courses refreshes your objectives and goals and can jumpstart your business. Many course options are available for you at the MAR Conference & Tradeshow being held this October 18-20. At the Conference, you can learn new ways to market, new sources of information to tap into, and business practices to help you succeed. They may be challenging to integrate into your daily routine and to adjust to, but the change will be worth it.