When it comes to finding quality property managers in the midst of a nationwide shortage, it often comes down to personality rather than skill.
Hiring property managers is a big challenge across the industry right now, with worker shortages affecting almost every agency. According to SEEK, PM job vacancies reached 3,000 in August, which explains why it is so difficult to find people.
However, agency owners still need to be selective in their hiring process. The following explains what property managers are looking for from their employers and which personality traits make the best PMs.
What property managers want
Many of the most experienced and talented property managers are struggling to meet the demands of a young family in conjunction with growing their careers. For this reason, they are seeking flexible work opportunities where they can set their own hours, work autonomously and get things done from home if they need to.
If your agency can accommodate these needs, you will have a larger pool of applicants to draw from. In order to make sure they are effective, you can put guidelines related to working hours and productivity in place as part of their contract.
Younger property managers tend to want career development opportunities. If they come in at the ground level, they will be looking to build their skills and will be excited to work with your agency if you offer professional development programs.
Across the board, the agencies which are the most desired as employers offer plenty of perks such as financial bonuses, mobile handsets, vehicles and other fringe benefits. You may be able to investigate novated lease agreements so your property managers can pay for their car before they pay tax or contribute to their health insurance, gym membership or home internet costs.
PMs are often people-pleasers but they need to feel appreciated and valued in order to stay for the long-term.
Traits to look out for
When you're interviewing candidates, particularly if they do not have industry specific skills, the following traits are important:
Reliability
A good property manager will respond promptly to enquiries and ensure clients and renters feel heard. Ask your candidate about how they plan to stay in touch with people and which standards they aim to adhere to. It will help if their benchmark for communication reflects your agency’s overall values.
A responsive property manager who quickly follows up enquiries without fail will always be sought-after and be a valuable asset to your agency.
Efficiency
The next trait a property manager needs is the ability to find ways to do more in less time. Switched on PMs know how to use digital tools and can delegate where necessary so they can focus on what’s most important.
Accuracy is also an important part of being efficient - and in property management is a critical skill for people to have.
Self-motivated
Senior property managers and department heads don’t always have time to micro manage. A good potential PM will be able to demonstrate how they can work independently and take initiative when something needs doing. They’ll be proactive when it comes to their clients and will be motivated to bring new rental property owners into the business.
Disciplined
You shouldn’t have to follow up with a PM constantly to ensure they are fulfilling their obligations. Organised operators will have their daily to-do list and will get as close to the end of it as they can, without wasting time.
Personable
Property management is about managing relationships and solving problems. If a PM can do both with a smile on their face, they will progress further in their career and be an asset to your team.
A question to ask in an interview could be around how the candidate handled conflict with a colleague or client in the past, or how they would approach a difficult situation.
When you’re hiring new property managers, if you can’t find someone experienced, look to these ‘soft skills’. You can invest in training someone enthusiastic and reliable, and build them into a trusted member of your team.
The final tip is to ensure your agency has an impressive brand property managers want to work for. You need to appeal to staff as much as clients so invest in your website and online presence because potential property managers will check you out before they apply for a role.