Your on-site leasing team is like a family! Just like everyone else in the world, they have surely had their own ups and downs this year and it’s essential to check in with them and see how they are doing. As a property manager, you most likely see them on a daily basis and ask “how are you” as you pass by them around the community, but it’s time to stop and really have a talk with the individual members of your team to see how they are really doing.
Set Aside a Meeting Time
Choose a date and time that works for you and your team members and have one on one meetings with each member of your staff. Be sure to approach the situation with care and understanding, letting them know that they are not in trouble or under review. Before meeting, ask them to take the time to sit with their thoughts and really delve into how they feel on a day to day basis at work. The more time you give them to prepare, the more beneficial the conversation will be.
Create a Safe Space to Talk
When you sit down with each team member, choose a neutral space where they feel comfortable to speak freely. You can even preface the conversation by delving into your own thoughts and feelings, showing that it’s a safe space. Consider your own body language and attitude and think of ways to make the conversation flow better. At the end of the day, each person will get as much out of the experience as they put into it.
Let The Conversation Flow
Don’t worry so much about structuring the conversation, but rather creating an organic experience. Simply check in with each person and see where they take the conversation. Some employees will be more open about their feelings than others and will dominate the conversation while you might have to guide others. Remind them that there will be no negative repercussions to the things they say and let them know that you are looking for ways to ensure their happiness at work. After each conversation you might start to see a pattern or theme with recurring issues or problem areas so be sure to take note of these instances.
It’s essential that you check in with your team regularly, especially during the coming months as we go back to normal. There are still many fears, anxieties, and unresolved issues that your team might want to address or make you aware of. The best thing you can do is simply listen. Do you have any questions about checking in with your team? Ask away in the comments below.
