Welcome to episode 99 of Boss Talks, hosted by Evan Happel from Community Boss! Just one episode shy of a century, this special edition features Carrie McGonagle, the Senior Vice President of Blue Mountain Community Management. They dive deep into the importance of HOA management, sharing stories and insights from Carrie's 13.5-year journey with her company. From building connections in the community to navigating the challenges of parking and working with diverse boards, this episode covers it all. Carrie also shares her thoughts on employment in the HOA industry, emphasizing the need for adaptability, honesty, and continuous education. Plus, hear about the unique industry dynamics, the importance of building professional relationships, and how organizations like OutKams and CAI play a pivotal role in this ever-evolving field. Grab your favorite coffee (or Boss Blend) and tune in for an engaging conversation about making a lasting impact in HOA management! 00:00 Welcome to Boss Talks Episode 99 00:20 Introducing Carrie McGonagle from Blue Mountain 03:02 Building Community: Personal and Professional Insights 05:13 HOA Parking Challenges and Funny Stories 09:16 Carrie's Journey into HOA Management 14:07 The Evolution of Blue Mountain Community Management 18:33 Adapting to Industry Changes and COVID-19 19:54 The Importance of Board Education and Industry Collaboration 26:30 Open Conversations and Problem Solving 26:51 Role on the Board and Educational Initiatives 27:20 Key Traits for Community Managers 29:01 Importance of Networking and Mentorship 31:11 Challenges and Adaptability in HOA Management 33:12 Board Member Education and Responsibilities 39:53 Managing Time and Expectations 43:04 Professionalism and Collaboration 46:27 Industry Growth and Personal Reflections 51:50 Final Thoughts and Future Outlook
In the 99th episode of Boss Talks, we had the privilege of hearing from Carrie McGonagle, the Senior Vice President of Blue Mountain Community Management. Based in Oregon, Carrie has built a remarkable career in HOA management over the past thirteen and a half years, despite never planning to enter the field. It was fascinating to delve into her journey, mutual connections, and her philosophy on leaving things better than she found them.
Carrie's path into HOA management was anything but straightforward. Interestingly, she found her way to the industry by chance, starting after an economy-induced job shift. Despite a degree in accounting and various roles in the banking and multifamily housing sectors, it was a temp job at Blue Mountain that ultimately launched her community management career. Today, she enthusiastically manages both clients and employees, stressing the importance of building sincere relationships and understanding the unique needs of each community she serves.
Building community is at the heart of Carrie's mission, both professionally and personally. She emphasizes the value of genuine interactions and connecting over common interests. For Carrie, it's about fostering relationships that go beyond surface-level transactions. Whether through simple acts, like inviting someone for coffee, or by nurturing professional bonds, Carrie believes that authentic connections often lead to personal and professional growth.
Carrie also shared insights about the unique dynamics and challenges within HOA management. From quirky parking scenarios to adapting HR practices to fit the community's shifting needs, she understands that flexibility and empathy are crucial in her field. Her dedication to not only her own development but also that of the industry highlights her commitment to improving the experience for everyone involved.
To future-proof the community management field, Carrie advocates for continuous learning and adaptation. Recognizing that employees' expectations evolve, she emphasizes the significance of maintaining a supportive work environment and encouraging professional development. By investing in people, she's not just focusing on immediate results but ensuring the long-lasting success and resilience of her team and industry.
We appreciate Evan's thoughtful and engaging conversation with Carrie, offering a glimpse into her philosophy and strategic outlook. Her story is a testament to the possibilities within community management, and how evolving industries can nurture meaningful careers. For those passionate about making a difference in their communities, Carrie's insights provide valuable guidance and inspiration.
Tune in next week for the 100th episode of Boss Talks, where Evan will continue to bring you more inspiring stories and insights from industry leaders. Whether you're in the HOA, condo, or apartment world, there's always something to learn and take away from each episode. Interested in sharing your journey? Reach out to Evan—he's eager to hear from bosses striving to make a positive impact.