Advancing Your Position in Self-Storage

I understand that advancing your position in self-storage can be challenging, and it often depends on your current situation, such as your employment status within a company and the size of the organization. Every company has a hierarchy, which can vary significantly between small storage operators and large REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts).

Both types of organizations have their unique challenges. For instance, if you work for a small storage operator, you might feel stuck in your position. In that case, you must ask yourself what you can do differently. Are you willing to move or take on more responsibilities?

On the other hand, if you’re with a REIT and feel confined in a role like a manager, I recommend pursuing further education. You should actively seek opportunities for career advancement and communicate your desire to move up within the organization. However, assessing whether your company truly offers those advancement opportunities is essential, as not every company does.

Are You Willing to Relocate?

Sometimes, you may need to consider relocating to find better opportunities that allow for growth, challenge, and a more enjoyable environment. Remember, education is crucial. The more you know about self-storage, the more valuable you become.

It can be challenging when someone claims to have 30 years of experience in self-storage but has only worked at the exact location throughout that time. Experience comes from working in various environments. I feel fortunate to have had diverse experiences in self-storage, from container storage to high-rise properties and everything in between.

Speak Up!

To advance, think about how you communicate your ambitions. If you’re wondering why it is you haven’t been promoted or why certain situations arise, take the initiative to speak up. Your employer must know your ambitions; they won’t reach that conclusion alone. For instance, express that desire clearly if you want to move up.

If you’re looking at advancing your position in self-storage, be prepared for increased responsibilities and maintain a positive attitude, even if you enjoy your current position. Some managers I’ve worked with preferred to stay in their roles because they loved the day-to-day operations and customer relationships. However, it’s essential to recognize that growth may require traveling between locations, depending on the company.

In my own experience, I managed multiple stores across various locations, which meant frequent travel. Initially, I found it exciting, but over time, it became challenging, especially with the climate and conditions of some places.

Therefore, it’s vital to communicate what you want and be vocal about your aspirations. Alongside this, invest in enhancing your storage knowledge. This knowledge is key to becoming indispensable in your role. Don’t let familiarity with one location define your expertise; strive to broaden your understanding of self-storage.

Strong communication skills and industry knowledge will empower you to manage multiple locations effectively. Make yourself an asset to your employer and your property. Consider attending storage conferences and participating in training programs to enhance your skills and knowledge.

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