Volume X, Number 3 – October  2007

REIC is looking to Market

Themselves through Pride

The Real Estate Institute of Canada, an organization known for its reputation of helping prominent real estate professionals earn distinguished designations is contemplation going into the fashion industry, but its not what you think – It is a way to show pride.

REIC is thinking of selling items with its logo on it to those members who would be interested in promoting their association with REIC.
 

“In the few months I have been here, the first thing that stood out to me was how proud the members are to be a part of this organization,” explains Lee Arbon, the Manager of Marketing & Communications.   “It seemed only logical to find a way to give them an opportunity to express that pride while promoting the organization to the public.”

The concept could have numerous benefits if put into operation.  It would allow members to promote their membership within REIC; it provides the organization with a larger public profile and can be an effective marketing tool when staff or members attend conferences and trade shows – just to name a few.

Arbon states that the idea has just been proposed and put on the table to determine the pros and cons it can have for REIC.

“It is in its early stages of thought,” he freely admits.

For the past few weeks the REIC website (www.reic.ca) has been conducting a poll to determine if the membership would be interested in participating in such an endeavor.

“Since the polls inception the response has been good,” concludes Arbon. “Right off the bat we had over fifty percent of respondents say ‘yes’ to such an idea and the number has continually stayed over that bench mark. In addition, close another twenty percent voted they might be interested depending on which items we would be promoting. I really think 70% is a good indicator of how they feel on the matter.”

Although the response has been good, it is only the first step in the process. The voice of the membership is vital in determining if and how this project would take off.

“For our organization to take on such a concept, we really need to know where our members stand on this issue. Not just whether they’re for or against it but why and what articles they would like to see whether it is golf shirts, ball caps or something else.”

Arbon elaborates further.  “I mean it could be as simple as a golf shirt, or perhaps members want something that they can purchase to give to clients. It could easily evolve to key chains, organizers or gift sets. That’s why we need to hear from you.”

Members are asked to submit their opinions on the REIC clothing line as well as possible product ideas to lee.arbon@reic.com

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