Is Proper Staffing the Key to a Successful Building Management?
Property management can be a complicated song and dance which always requires a fine attention to detail. One facet that does not receive enough attention is the staffing strategy. Sure, it is easy to say “well, I have a Super,” or “I have someone who takes out the trash,” but having the right staff in place will allow you to bring your property to the next level by helping to create the best experience possible for your residents. The staff is truly the heartbeat of your property.
Imagine: a dedicated maintenance team who will catch a problem before a resident may even see it, an on-site property manager coordinating the flow of a seamless daily operation, and a vigilant lobby staff making sure all guests are announced and all packages received . It’s not just about addressing problems; it's about creating an environment where problems are preemptively identified, swiftly resolved, and a resident's only worry is to figure out what they want for dinner that night.
When an adequate staffing structure is implemented into a building, the space will thrive. It's the difference between a property that is simply available, and one that people truly want to live in. The biggest question on every property manager's or owner’s mind is, "How do I figure out the perfect staffing structure for my building?"
Start by looking at the unique qualities of your property. Each building has its own personality and quirks. Make sure that your staffing structure aligns with these characteristics. Considerations include but are not limited to:
- Is the building big or small? (A high-rise, for example, will demand a different structure than a boutique apartment complex. There could be unique maintenance requirements, additional residents, and more substantial amenity spaces.)
- Are there amenity spaces?
- Do you have multiple entrances that need to be monitored visually or physically?
- What is the level of service your residents will expect?
- Are there any State or Local regulations that you need to adhere to with the number of staff members?
Engaging and understanding your residents is another key aspect. In some buildings, a resident might expect “white glove” service with a 24-hour doorman and security staff, whereas in other buildings a video intercom system may suffice. Having an open line of communication with your residents is also a proactive way of confirming if any change is necessary. If you are noticing a consistent comment, good or bad, then you can be proactive in your approach to adjusting your staffing needs.
It is also important to stay flexible. With property management, the world is ever-changing. New technologies may help to reduce the number of staff, or you may want to implement new trends that require additional staff. Make sure your strategy is constantly reassessed and adjusted based on these changes. Embracing innovation can also lead to more satisfied residents, which can be a nice bonus for your bottom line.
Just like everything else in a building, no one solution is forever, and sometimes you may have to go through a trial-and-error period to find the right one. This can be stressful but will help to create an environment that residents want to call home for a long time to come.
At Kahana, we would be happy to assist! Contact us below and someone from our team will reach out ASAP to help evaluate your building's needs.
