Many of us look forward to new beginnings. And that's why when the calendar year hits a new number, this allows a perfect opportunity to think about personal and business goals. 

 

For this blog, let's drill down to goals specifically focused on the property you and your team currently manage. While it is fun to toss out large scale capitalization projects, I am asking you to think about the basic, day-to-day operations kind of tasks. 

 

First step - Take a Hard Look at Your Team. I do not mean this in a negative way. I am asking just how well do you know your co-workers? Are they excited to show up for work everyday? Are they excited to serve your residents? What do they enjoy doing the most? Industry strengths? Weaknesses? What motivates them? Bonuses? Public recognition? Time off? It's pretty easy to understand that a staffer who loves their job will give it their all. Are your team members even in the right positions? Here's how to find out:

 

I.  Ask Them! Most Property Managers I know are a stressful bunch. I have definitely been part of that club. I don't know why, but this particular industry creates managers who think they can do it all. No wonder we burn out so quickly! Remember - it's January 4th. Traffic is slow. Hopefully work orders and make-readies are under control. This is the ideal time to schedule a quick, "stand-up" full staff meeting and ask each team member to list their three job-related NY's resolutions. Make it super easy for them. They can jot these down on a post-it, email you, or simply tell you. And give them a deadline.

 

II. Make this Fun! How often do you hear from folks like the Courtesy Officer, Receptionist/Concierge or Maintenance Tech? Many staffers will not offer opinions unless asked. They will appreciate being included and respected for their input. And the fun part? Besides learning more about the people you work with, start thinking about prizes they may win. Some of my favorite prizes came from the Dollar Store. My boss even wrapped up a scotch tape dispenser and gave it to me in front of everyone. Obviously there is a joke about this - and it is precious. Yes, I still have that tape dispenser!

 

III. Be Ready to Be Surprised! This is the best part. When I conducted this exercise, I discovered these few highlights:

1) A member of the concierge team had the BEST resident event ideas.
2) Our Chief Building Engineer wanted to pick-out the team's uniforms - and boy did he do an amazing job.
3)  An assistant maintenance tech asked to be in charge of turn-key. And yes, he was so good at this role that even I had a tough time finding anything wrong. And I am a "white-glove" type of inspector who maintenance shrills at the thought of me walking their apartments.
4) Our cleaner loves to pressure wash. Seriously. Even in the winter.

 

IV. Meet With Each Staffer. After you have received their NY's resolutions, schedule an hour to simply chat with each member of your team. Again, surprises will be learned. One staffer wants to create a newsletter, another desires to oversee the vendors. There is amazing talent just waiting to be tapped. And remember, this is a win-win for you, your residents, and most importantly, your team members.

 

The multi-family business can be crazy and stressful. Let's start the year off right by appreciating our teams and giving them what they want so they will be excited to show up everyday. Isn't that we all want?

 

Can't wait to hear your feedback. Happy NY's Multi-Family peeps!