Summer often brings a significant increase in foot traffic to commercial properties. With people taking vacations, shopping for seasonal items, or simply enjoying the warm weather, managing this surge effectively is crucial for maintaining tenant satisfaction, ensuring safety, and protecting the property. Here are some strategies to help commercial Property Managers handle the seasonal influx smoothly.
Strategies for Managing Increased Foot Traffic
Optimize Cleaning and Maintenance Schedules: Higher foot traffic can lead to more wear and tear on floors, restrooms, and common areas. Increase the frequency of cleaning and maintenance routines to ensure these areas remain clean and inviting. Consider adding extra staff during peak hours to address immediate issues and maintain high standards of cleanliness. BGSF can help you scale your staff for peak times, without the hassle of hiring full-time staff. Learn more here!
Enhance Security Measures: With more visitors on the property, security becomes even more critical. Review and upgrade your security protocols to handle the increased flow of people. This may include hiring additional security personnel, increasing the frequency of patrols, and installing more surveillance cameras in high-traffic areas. Also, it is critical to ensure that all emergency exits are accessible and clearly marked.
Improve Signage and Wayfinding: Clear, well-placed signage can help manage the flow of people and reduce congestion. Ensure that all directional signs are visible and easy to understand, directing visitors to key areas such as restrooms, exits, and information desks. Temporary signage might be necessary for special events or changes in traffic patterns.
Enhance Parking Management: An influx of visitors can lead to parking challenges. Implement measures to manage parking effectively, such as using parking attendants during busy times, offering valet services, or providing clear signage for available parking spots. Consider partnering with nearby lots to offer additional parking options if needed.
Boost Tenant Communication: Keep your tenants informed about expected increases in foot traffic and any changes in property management protocols. Regular updates via email or a property management app can help tenants prepare for the busy season and adjust their operations accordingly. Property Managers may also encourage tenants to communicate any concerns or suggestions they may have.
Utilize Technology for Crowd Management: Leverage technology to monitor and manage foot traffic in real time. Use sensors and analytics to track visitor patterns and identify peak times. This data can help you make informed decisions about staffing, cleaning schedules, and security measures. Additionally, consider implementing digital queuing systems to manage lines and reduce crowding in high-traffic areas.
Plan for Special Events: Summer often brings special events, promotions, and sales that can further increase foot traffic. Work closely with your tenants to coordinate these events and ensure they are well-organized. Provide additional support and resources as needed, such as extra cleaning staff, security, or promotional materials.
Ensure HVAC Systems are Running Efficiently: With more people in the building, HVAC systems may be under greater strain to maintain comfortable temperatures. Conduct regular maintenance checks and ensure that systems are running efficiently. Consider temporary cooling solutions in particularly crowded areas to keep the environment pleasant for visitors and tenants alike.
Focus on Customer Experience: A positive experience can turn a one-time visitor into a regular customer. Provide amenities such as free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating areas, and information desks staffed with friendly, knowledgeable personnel. Small touches like offering refreshments or providing charging stations for mobile devices can enhance the overall experience.
Evaluate and Adapt: After the summer season, evaluate the effectiveness of your strategies. Gather feedback from tenants, staff, and visitors to identify areas for improvement. Use this information to refine your approach for future high-traffic periods, ensuring that your property remains well-managed and welcoming year-round.
Ensuring Property Standards This Summer
By proactively managing increased foot traffic during the summer, commercial Property Managers can maintain a safe, clean, and enjoyable environment for all visitors and tenants. Implementing these strategies will help ensure that your property stands out as a well-organized and attractive destination, even during the busiest times.
As you and your team adapt to the seasonal needs of commercial real estate, consider the invaluable support BGSF can provide to your team. From saving time and money in the hiring process to accessing a diverse talent pool, the benefits are numerous. Face the future confidently, knowing that you have a dedicated partner committed to helping you build a scalable team to drive success. Contact us to request top talent today!
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