Charisse Harris' Blog

I had the privilege to visit 6 apartment communities last week. Out of the 6 communities, only 1 community had a very welcoming, enthusiastic, and energetic presence.  Only 1!  One of the offices I visited was very busy. The leasing agent was talking with an existing resident and the community manager had a pressing emergency on the phone.  How would a potential resident react to this situation? As a community manager, how would you correct this unpleasant welcome to a potential resident?

First impressions are everything! As in real estate, "location, location, location" is a must; "customer service, customer service, customer service" is vital at any community. Leaders of a community must realize that its the simple approaches that count to a potential or current resident. If potential residents are seeking to find that perfect community to call home, wouldn't you lease an apartment with the community that gave you the warmest and welcoming greeting? That triggers a potential resident that they will be taken care of and all of their needs will be met.

Community Managers can sometimes become overwhelmed with all of the day-to-day functions in operating a community. In order to operate a property successfully, Managers must be organized, know how to delegate responsibilities, and communicate with their staff effectively to meet various goals for the property.

I would like Community Managers to join in and take the "Hour Early Initiative Challenge". The goal of this challenge is to create a stress free work environment for Community Managers and their staff. Community Managers will:

1. Take the Initiative to come in to work 1-Hour Early - Don't worry about pay on this hour. Love what you do and care about your community.