Melanie Zaelich Reflects on 2018

1. When did you get involved in leadership?

I first got involved with the Chapter as a non-Board position of organizing the volunteering activities shortly after joining the Chapter. Within a few months, our President-Elect had to step down, so I stepped up as President-Elect in 2017 and became President in 2018.

2. What made you decide to get involved in RESA leadership?

Throughout my (past-life) career, I had always wanted to be in a leadership role — certain ceilings made of glass made that impossible (in my field). Now, as a business owner, and my own boss, that ceiling no longer exists. It was very exciting and liberating to finally reach a long time goal — on my terms — and for an industry I love.

3. What are you most proud of accomplishing during your time in RESA leadership?

I’m happy to have had the opportunity to create some new tools for our members and Chapter. Including: Private Members Only Facebook Group (total hit), Public Facebook Page Member Directory, new email address with professional signatures, an easy-to-follow branded look and a Facebook posting strategy.

Also, in the beginning of the year, we (the Board) asked each member what they would like to get out of our meetings, and we used that list to hep determine our monthly meeting subjects— and we covered most subjects — so that feels good!

4. What advice do you have for others who are interested in being involved with RESA leadership?

I would strongly recommend being a part of RESA Leadership! Everyone has unique talents, insights, experiences that we can all learn and grow from. It has made me a better business woman, it allowed me to accomplish a long-time goal and it feels really good to have members thank you for all that you did.

5. What do you hope to see for the staging industry in the next 5 years?

I hope to see more, and better, understanding of staging in the public eye. I’d like more people understand the value a professional stager can bring them: from consultations, to using what they have to vacant’s. I would also like to see more consistency and open discussion regarding pricing (in local markets). Especially with the large staging companies that stage beautiful homes for cheap. It hurts the industry as a whole. It’s the “big box store” effect. And having that effect is detrimental when an industry is in still in its infancy. I would like to see ALL staging companies be a part of RESA and all working together for each other.