New York, NY The Building Owners & Managers Association of Greater New York (BOMA New York) has launched a new mentorship program this month. The program is aimed at connecting BOMA New York members who may be new to the commercial property management industry with seasoned, well-experienced professionals. The hope is that these mentor/mentee relationships will give support to the BOMA New York Emerging Leaders, increase job retention in the industry, provide a sounding board and opportunity for advice, and promote individual learning and growth. 

“Our intent in establishing a year-long mentorship program is to provide our less experienced members with an opportunity to receive guidance on how to become a more valuable industry asset, and to have a planned pathway to a rewarding career,” said BOMA New York president James Kleeman. “We will provide our mentors with the tools and resources to ensure that they can adequately support their mentees, and our mentees with a regular knowledge-base to tap into.”

Program Eligibility

For mentees, involvement in the mentorship program is available to BOMA New York Emerging Leader Members who are under 35 years of age and have five or less years of experience in commercial property management. Potential mentors are required to have a minimum of five years of experience as a senior property manager. This program was created to focus on education and growth, rather than only career networking. Both potential mentees and mentors were required to apply by Friday, May 19th. 

How the Program Works

BOMA New York has matched a mentor and suitable mentee based on objectives, skill sets and interests outlined in each application. Later this month, each matched mentor/mentee partnership will meet in person at an introductory kick-off event. Each matched pair will discuss the number, frequency and format of meeting sessions, and begin to get to know each other. After this introductory event, each pair will maintain their own mentor/mentee relationships for the remainder of the year following the schedules and boundaries set at the kick-off. Mentors and mentees are encouraged to develop real, lasting professional relationships.

BOMA New York’s mentorship program, an initiative led by the organization’s president, is a first of its kind for the local affiliate.

“Early in my career, I did not have mentorship opportunities like ones we are offering at BOMA New York, however, I understand the difference mentorship can make,” said Kleeman. “I currently mentor quite a few younger professionals and I enjoy watching their passion and drive grow over time.”

The mentorship program requires mutual respect and confidentiality. To learn more about the program, email: BOMA New York’s director of membership & special events Ami Shah at [email protected].