Building a Culture

Peter OBrien cropped

An article by Peter O'Brien

For any Property Management company to be successful it is important to have a motivated and committed team.  As a Team Leader I have always encouraged my staff to work with me instead of working for me.  

To build a successful team and maintain a consistent environment and culture that works I constantly remind staff of the following practices that is expected of them. I do this in regular staff meetings, one on one meeting’s, general open discussions in the office and whenever there is an opportunity. This open communication process is the key to a Team that works well together.

All staff are expected to:

  • Understand that all relationships require trust. Without trust there is not much hope to build a relationship with anyone.
  • Know that communication is the most important element of a successful business relationship.   
  • Don’t be a clock watcher. If you run out of things to do during the workday, ask if there is anything else you can do to help bring value to the company, our clients and our image and branding.
  • Respect individuality.  Understand that people will have different opinions and behavior
  • Don’t be afraid to admit mistakes. It is better to admit that you made a mistake and understand why you made the mistake.  This will prevent you making the same mistake again.
  • Don’t be afraid to say, “I don’t know.”  It is better to confess that you don’t know and then learn the right way of doing things.
  • Don’t talk behind someone’s back.  We expect your loyalty and best efforts.  You should expect ours in return. If you dislike or are having an issue with a team member or you are not happy with the companies actions then let us know what is bothering you and we will try to work it out.
  • Keep yourself healthy, focused and alert at all times.  Without your health you will not reach your own potential and you won’t contribute to our full potential.
  • Find the importance in the diversity of those that you work with and the company clients and use this to better understand them.
  • Be genuine and honest at all times. We have open doors and welcome you to talk to us anytime.  Always know that you are not alone.
  • Express your ideas and beliefs. We are always open to doing our job better.  
  • Don’t do to others what you wouldn’t want done to you
  • Present yourself like you respect and like yourself.

 

I recommend that you and your team create a list similar to mine and you will experience how a few expectations can set the backbone of a rewarding company culture.