CAI-NJ Mar.2020 (w) (1)

A DAY IN THE LIFE... from page 18.

members within the workplace is essen- tial. Having a friendly, informative rela- tionship with everyone makes for a better community and a better day. It is important to respond to everyone, with courtesy and respect. Providing information that they are entitled to have and carrying out their requests should be a pleasant experience. Residents are also possible future board members, so educating the residents as a manager helps tremendously with transitioning board members. Regardless of whether a resident becomes a board member, educated and well-informed residents help communities run smoothly and efficiently. When a resident knows the “why”, they are more accepting of the rules and procedures of their community and more likely to follow them and pass the information on to their neighbors. Serving the customer is what is

done from the minute of arriving at work until the day is done. Often, receiving emails and texts before getting to work and a having a line of residents to greet is the best way to start any day! Good, open and honest communi- cation is essential. A day in the life of a manager in this industry may include all of the above, but no day is the same as another. Being orga- nized, over-prepared, and meticulous is what is needed. The acquisition of information, working with colleagues, and meeting homeowners it what it is about. Being able to effectively serve clients is extremely rewarding. In summary, “A Day in the Life of a Manager” is exciting, rewarding, educational and social. Being a “peo- ple” person and focusing on each task at hand transcends routine! n

Knowing “a lot about a lot” is quite the skill in itself. This is a superpower! Managers’ memories need to be sharp — like that of a bottlenose dolphin! Managers must be able to remember and retain not only what they learn, but things that come up throughout the day that may not make it to any to do list. Managers also have to be able to recall past incidents, project history, and even residents’ names and unit numbers. Being in the field of customer ser- vice means that a day in the life of a manager emphasizes service and people. Relationship building is key. Developing and maintaining good relationships with vendors, residents, and board members as well as team

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