by Josh Parker
B-E
P-R-O-D-U-C-T-I-V-E!
For many of our readers, self-storage development is fresh on their mind. Maybe you are looking for land, or working with architects to design a facility. Maybe you are researching self-storage franchising and wondering if it is a good fit for your lifestyle and financial goals. Or maybe you, too, work in a self-storage office. Whatever the case, one thing I am confident of, is that there are many tasks, ideas to consider, decisions to make, and conversations to have in any given day, and 24 hours often doesn't seem like enough.
It can be easy to get bogged down in the minutiae and lose sight of the big picture, or run out of steam to get the essentials done. Sometimes it is necessary to be a cheerleader- for your staff, your co-workers, or yourself- to provide that little bit of motivation and encouragement (or kick in the pants) to push through, regain focus, and cross off that next item on your list.
I recently did a presentation to the Storage Authority Owners and Managers about efficiency in the workday- complete with workday hacks and tips for maximizing productivity. The presentation was from my perspective as a manager, derived from my experiences and observations in the trenches of a self-storage office, however, my hope is that no matter what your day looks like, you'll find some small takeaway.
On of my favorite tips from the above slide is about managing your energy, not just your time. For me, I know that my energy is highest mid morning, and mid afternoon. I actively plan my tasks according to my energy level so that I am not sitting at my desk doing slow tedious tasks first thing, or right after lunch when my energy is low- the task will take me twice as long! Instead, I plan something active- either physically, like cleaning a unit, or mentally- an important phone call or conversation. These types of tasks have a way of "waking me up" a bit, and are much more efficient during my energy lulls. If you haven't yet, reflect for a moment and do a quick energy audit of a typical day for you. When are your energy highs/lows, and are there tasks that would be better or worse during those times? Try switching it up next time and schedule your tasks based on this energy analysis, and see if you are more productive.
When my daughter was young, I often had to get the both of us ready to get out of the house in the morning. She had a habit of crying tirelessly anytime I set her down. My pre-coffee morning dad brain couldn't process all that crying, and so I'd have to pick her up again and again, making getting ready for the day, well, nearly impossible. I had to do something, so as you can see in the picture, a sling was the perfect hands-free solution. For 45 minutes every morning, she'd happily bop around in that sling while I made lunches, brushed my teeth, and whatever else I had to do to prep for a productive work day.
Sometimes, there isn't a conventional way to get something done. Creative, out-of-the-box problem solving is key. Much like the sling for my daughter, there are tools that can help for a variety of tasks: docks for cell-phones that not only keep it out of your hands (and distracting you) but will also charge it (win-win!), stand up desks (better for your posture, and might help you stay alert and focused).
I like to have multiple work spaces available at all times. In my office I have a tradition desk space, but I also have a tall table where I can stand and work, and it is big and open, so I can easily spread out, organize, and see everything. Sometimes, even that isn't enough, and I need to change my environment, so I'll work at the kitchen island, or even the back deck for an hour. It is amazing how taking the 60 seconds to collect my notes and laptop, and relocate to another room, can boost my productivity immediately.
Let me know in the comments your favorite workday hacks, productivity tips and tricks, or even your favorite K-cups or snacks- that get you through the day!
If you want to learn more about a Storage Authority Franchise you can request it here www.storageauthorityfranchise.com/opportunity4 or give me a call.
Josh Parker is VP of Technology and Development at Storage Authority. A tech guru with a background in large facility operations and team leadership, Josh is passionate about helping individuals and teams achieve success! He can be reached at josh@storageauthority.com, by phone at (942) 275-1340, and can also often be seen visiting local coffee shops across Central Connecticut.