.Have you ever reached that point where running your self-storage property just feels like too much to handle? The good news is that you've got options!

In episode 9 of the Self Storage Lab podcast, Kyle, Mason, and Rodolfo discuss the varying management styles in the self storage industry and how they have led to changes in the day-to-day functions of operating teams.

Mentioned in this episode:

The transition period in the industry

• The shift from traditional brick and mortar management to remote, unmanned, and virtual management

• The rise of technology and changing consumer expectations

• The impact of COVID-19 on management styles

Different management styles

• Fully remote or unmanned management
• Hybrid management styles
• Automated management

Which management style is right for you?

• The benefits and challenges of the different styles of management
• The role of human involvement in remote management
• The need for reliable technology and security measures
• The importance of customer service and personal interaction
• The potential for robots and other technologies to replace human involvement

The shift in management styles in the self storage industry

• The importance of focusing on sales and service centers and boots on the ground personnel
• Viewing management styles as a customer journey
• The importance of the first-time rental experience
• 70% of renters are first-time renters

The role of technology in improving the customer experience

• The potential for cloud-based software, mobile apps, and kiosks to improve efficiency and convenience
• The need for reliable technology to protect sensitive data
• The potential for technology to improve the ongoing customer experience

Making the decision for your business

• The importance of finding the right balance for your business and customers
• Pros/Cons of In-house management
• Pros/Cons of Third-party management
• The economies of scales of Third-party management

Remote vs. Unattended facilities

• Is it truly unmanned/unattended?
• The benefits/challenges of remote management
• What’s the difference between remote and hub and spoke?
• What’s the deal with unattended facilities?
• Finding the right balance

The Importance of Simplification

• How to streamline the Customer Journey to bring uniformity
• Simplifying the technology stack to have one way to do as much as possible is key to success
• How to optimize the Rental and Sales Process

Leveraging automation in self-storage management

• The impact of technology on hiring and employee turnover rates
• The importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) in remote management
• The role of technology in enhancing property value and attracting higher-end tenants
• Tools and technologies for remote management, including video calling, contact centers, and automated locks
• AI for predictive maintenance and enhanced security
• Thinking outside the box and applying retail strategies to self-storage management and operations.

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