Earning a designation may seem like a daunting task, but it is an investment worth making.

Kelly Kenton Fink, MIRM

Just ask Kelly Kenton Fink, MIRM, regional marketing and Internet director for Bowen Family Homes in Duluth, Ga.. This MIRM took time out to answer some burning questions on how becoming a MIRM enriched her skills and her career.

What were the first perks you experienced after becoming a MIRM? 

The first perks, in my eyes ,were that I was asked to speak at local HBA events, such as chapter meetings, and also began participating in educational seminars in Atlanta. I had also set a goal for myself to complete all four IRM Courses and my case study within a 12 month period, so earning my MIRM in that timeframe was a great personal accomplishment which provided me more confidence in my career.

What MIRM benefit has had the most lasting impact on your career?

The most lasting impact on my career is two-fold. First, earning my MIRM allowed me to expand my knowledge of our industry in ways I would not have been able to do on my own. It also helped me become more involved in networking events both at a local level and each year at The International Builder’s Show. This has allowed me to meet and work with some of the most successful and knowledgeable people in our industry. Second, I also had the pleasure and honor of speaking at the 2009 International Builder’s Show in Las Vegas. I truly believe my MIRM designation provided me the knowledge and credentials to be chosen for such an honor.  

What have been the most unexpected benefits of earning your MIRM designation?

I think too many people, including myself, stress too much over their case study. In the end I realized my case study provided me with amazing insight into the processes within our company and how to better market and budget our projects more effectively. I don’t think you can truly understand the how beneficial your case study will be to your career until you get started.

What did your case study teach you that you have been able to apply in your career?

The case study really helped me learn how to better analyze all aspects of a project, from land acquisition, product design, pricing strategies, marketing budgets, etc. While I was completing my case study, I was able to analyze and update our current budgets and marketing plans on other projects as well, allowing us to increase our traffic and sales in the process.  

Any parting words?

I would like to share with those who have completed their four IRM Courses but have not completed their case study: The case study is not as scary as you might believe. The process is such an amazing learning experience for any MIRM candidate. You get the chance to really analyze a project/community from the very beginning to the end and all aspects in between. The case study does require discipline to complete it, but it is well worth the effort. You will become more knowledgeable on your company, community and you will become more valuable to your employer and your industry.

For more information on the MIRM designation, please visit www.nahb.org/mirminfo.

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