In episode 93 of Boss Talks, host Evan Happel interviews Monique Edwards, also known as Mo, who discusses her experiences and passion for the multifamily industry. Mo shares insights into her journey, including the importance of networking, community building, and career development in the multifamily housing sector. They also delve into the significance of volunteering, the power of local associations, and upcoming events at Apartmentalize in Philadelphia. This episode is packed with tips on career growth, employee engagement, and the value of connections within the industry.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:40 Meet Monique Edwards
03:00 Excitement for Apartmentalize in Philly
03:56 Monique's Professional Journey
06:00 Building Community and Hospitality
08:21 Caffeinated Conversations
10:42 Career Path Insights
23:10 Philly Slang and Fun
26:58 Philly Cheesesteak Etiquette
29:21 Volunteering and Career Growth
30:05 Impact of Association Involvement
41:04 Upcoming NAA Event
46:54 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
This is episode 93, and our guest is the incredible Monique "Mo" Edwards. We are thrilled to have Mo join us, especially after meeting her at Apartmentalize last year in Atlanta. She’s a valuable member of Melanin and Multifamily and is bringing some Philly flair to our conversation today as we prepare for our trip to Apartmentalize in Philadelphia.
She started with a degree in PR and marketing and had dreams of becoming a celebrity publicist. However, life had other plans, and Mo found her way into the multifamily industry thanks to a nudge from her sorority sisters. Over the last 13 years, Mo has held various positions, from leasing consultant to regional support specialist, and she currently thrives on the supplier side of the business.
One of Mo’s main passions is building community, both professionally and personally. She connects people, resources, and opportunities, fostering a strong sense of community wherever she goes. In our conversation, she highlighted the importance of hospitality and making people feel special, whether it’s through a shared meal of tacos or Asian cuisine or simply by reaching out and making connections.
Volunteering is another area where Mo excels. Her contributions to the Pennsylvania Apartment Association have not only advanced her career but also empowered her to give back to the industry. She encourages everyone to get involved with their local associations and even shared how volunteering has enriched her life, both as a PTO chair and through various roles within the association.
Looking ahead to Apartmentalize, Mo is excited to speak on a panel about career development and employee retention. The session, titled "Career Metamorphosis: Transforming Employee Ambitions into Realities," will dive into actionable solutions to help keep talented employees engaged and growing within their companies. It’s an important topic, especially in an industry where turnover and quiet quitting are common challenges.