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Winter can be a challenging season for commercial property managers. The colder months bring a host of potential hazards, including snow and ice accumulation, heating system failures, and increased maintenance demands. To navigate these challenges effectively, it’s essential to budget properly for the winter season and its associated risks. Winter Considerations Past Winter Performance: Before crafting your winter budget, take a look back at the performance of your property during previous winters. Identify areas that require significant attention, the associated costs, and any recurring issues. This retrospective analysis will help you anticipate and allocate resources more effectively. Snow and Ice Removal: Snow and ice are some of the most prominent winter hazards, so it is critical to budget for snow removal services. Consider the frequency and volume of snowfall in your region, and plan for snowplowing, salting, and shoveling to maintain clear and safe pathways. Heating System Maintenance: The winter months put an extra burden on heating systems. Schedule routine maintenance for your HVAC equipment, boilers, and furnaces to ensure they function efficiently during the cold season. Allocate a portion of your budget for regular inspections, filter replacements, and any necessary repairs. Emergency Funds: Unpredictable winter weather can lead to unexpected emergencies, such as burst pipes, roof leaks, or heating system failures. Set aside a portion of your budget for emergency repairs. Having a reserve for these situations can help you act quickly to prevent further damage. Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance: Even during winter, maintaining the property’s exterior is essential. Budget for snow removal from parking lots, walkways, and common areas. Consider additional landscaping maintenance to protect trees and shrubs, and prevent damage from snow and ice accumulation. Safety Measures: Safety should be a top priority during the winter season. Allocate funds for safety measures, such as additional signage, well-placed handrails, adequate lighting, and provisions for sand or salt to reduce slip and fall risks. Regularly inspect these measures to ensure they are in good working order. Long-Term Planning: While immediate winter preparations are vital, also think about long-term improvements to make your property more resilient to winter hazards. Plan for capital investments, such as roofing upgrades, insulation enhancements, and the installation of energy-efficient systems. Staffing Services: These unique winter challenges may outpace the capacity of your current team, so considering your staffing needs is crucial during this season. BGSF specializes in connecting property managers with skilled professionals in various fields related to winter readiness, including snow removal services, HVAC technicians, plumbing and insulation experts, and grounds maintenance. Proper winter budgeting for commercial properties is an investment in the long-term health and safety of your property. By assessing past performance, considering this year’s needs, and thinking forward to long-term improvements, commercial property managers can master the challenges of winter. A well-prepared budget will help you weather the winter season with confidence, ensuring that your property remains an attractive and safe place for tenants and visitors. BGSF is here to assist property managers in assembling the perfect team to tackle winter challenges head-on. With our access to specialized talent, streamlined hiring process, flexibility, and reliability, you can ensure that your property remains safe, functional, and well-prepared for the winter season. Contact us today to learn more about how we can be your winter readiness partner.

As the winter season approaches, property managers face unique challenges when it comes to fire safety. While winter brings cozy moments by the fireplace and holiday festivities, it also poses an increased risk of fires due to heating systems, holiday decorations and cooking, and extreme weather conditions. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, "30% of all home fires and 38% of home fire deaths occur during the winter months (December through February)." Below we dive deeper into the specific fire risks property managers must acknowledge, as well as how they can prevent them. Winter Fire Risks Let's explore the specific fire risks associated with the winter season: Heating Systems: Many buildings rely on heating systems like furnaces, space heaters, and fireplaces to combat the cold. If not properly maintained or used incorrectly, these systems can become fire hazards, especially in older properties. Holiday Decor: Increased use of lighting and electrical decorations during the holiday season can lead to overloaded circuits and potential electrical fires. Also, dry Christmas trees, combined with electrical decorations, are a recipe for disaster. A single spark can ignite a tree, leading to a fast-spreading fire. Cookware: The holidays are also a time for large family dinners and baking. The increase in the use of stove tops and ovens can also be cause for concern when it comes to fire safety. Open Flames: Candles and fireplaces are commonly used for ambiance and warmth during the winter months. However, if candles are left unattended or fireplaces are not properly serviced, they can cause fires very quickly. Fire Prevention in the Winter Conduct a Comprehensive Inspection: Before the winter season sets in, conduct a thorough inspection of your property. Check for any maintenance issues, such as damaged wiring, faulty heating systems, or inadequate insulation, which could pose fire risks. Address any concerns promptly to prevent potential hazards from escalating. Maintain Heating Systems: Ensure that all heating units, including furnaces, boilers, and space heaters, are serviced regularly by qualified technicians. Clean or replace filters as needed and remind tenants not to block vents or use portable heaters improperly. Educate Residents: Resident education is a key component of fire prevention. Provide them with winter fire safety tips, including guidelines on space heater usage, safe practices for using fireplaces, and the importance of maintaining smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Encourage them to report any electrical or heating issues promptly. Maintain Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are essential safety devices. Ensure that all units are equipped with working smoke detectors and that they are tested regularly. Change the batteries at least twice a year, ideally during daylight saving time transitions. Inspect Fireplaces and Chimneys: If your properties have fireplaces, it's crucial to have them inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney sweep. Ensure that the fireplace is functioning correctly and that residents use the fireplace safely, including using a fire screen and never leaving a fire unattended. Clear Snow and Ice: Winter weather can create hazards not only inside but also outside your buildings. Regularly clear snow and ice from walkways, driveways, and exits to ensure safe passage for tenants and emergency personnel. Make sure fire hydrants are accessible and not buried under snow. Prepare for Power Outages: Winter storms can lead to power outages, which may prompt residents to use alternative heating sources like candles or improperly maintained generators. Encourage them to have emergency kits on hand, including flashlights and battery-powered heaters, and educate them about the safe use of these devices. Develop an Emergency Plan: Create and distribute an emergency plan that outlines procedures for evacuating the building in case of a fire or other emergencies. Ensure tenants know the designated meeting points and how to contact emergency services. Regularly conduct fire drills to familiarize everyone with the evacuation process. Winter fire prevention is a shared responsibility between property managers and tenants. By taking proactive steps, conducting regular inspections, and providing education on fire safety, you can help ensure that your properties remain safe and warm during the colder months. By prioritizing fire prevention, you not only protect your property investment but, more importantly, the lives of those who call your buildings home. We can help you achieve your seasonal fire prevention goals with the help of our extensive network of talent. Contact us today to learn more!

With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, traditional methods of defense are becoming increasingly vulnerable. This offers a unique opportunity to dive into the new frontier of Artificial Intelligence, which may play a pivotal role in safeguarding our digital assets. In this blog, we will explore AI's growing role in cybersecurity threats as well as how it is transforming the landscape of digital security to respond to them. The Growing Cybersecurity Threat As a society, we are more interconnected than ever before, which brings both opportunities and vulnerabilities to our daily interactions. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving, employing advanced tactics to infiltrate these interconnected systems and steal sensitive information. There is even growing concern around AI-driven attacks, where cybercriminals could harness the power of AI for more sophisticated and devastating assaults, including: Automated Password Cracking: AI-driven password-cracking tools can analyze user behavior and common password patterns to guess passwords faster and with greater accuracy. Sophisticated Phishing Attacks: With AI, attackers can craft highly convincing phishing messages. AI-driven phishing can analyze your online presence, social media activity, and writing style to create personalized messages that are challenging to spot as fraudulent. AI-Enhanced Malware: Machine learning algorithms can be used to create malware that adapts and evolves. This makes it harder for traditional cybersecurity tools to detect and combat. Deepfake Attacks: Deepfake technology uses AI to create convincing fake videos or audio recordings. Cybercriminals can use deepfakes to impersonate executives or coworkers and deceive individuals. AI + Cybersecurity As a result of these evolving tactics, the need for intelligent and adaptive cybersecurity solutions has never been more critical. AI-Powered Threat Detection: One of AI's most crucial roles in cybersecurity is in threat detection and mitigation. AI systems can analyze vast amounts of data in real time, allowing them to identify anomalies and potential threats with impressive speed and accuracy. Machine learning algorithms can detect unusual patterns in network traffic and behavior, making it possible to spot malicious activities before they escalate. Furthermore, AI-driven detection systems can continuously learn and adapt to new threats. As cybercriminals create new attack methods, AI can quickly adjust its algorithms to identify these emerging threats, providing a proactive defense mechanism. Behavioral Analysis and Anomaly Detection: AI systems excel at behavioral analysis. They can learn the typical behavior of users and systems within an organization and flag deviations. For instance, if a user suddenly accesses sensitive data they never have before or tries to download a large amount of data in a short time, AI systems can trigger an alert. This allows for early intervention to prevent data breaches or unauthorized access. Real-time Response: AI not only detects threats but can also take immediate action to mitigate them. For example, AI-driven security systems can automatically quarantine infected devices, block suspicious IP addresses, and even initiate countermeasures against attacks. This real-time response is invaluable in reducing the impact of cyberattacks and minimizing harm. AI in Malware Detection: Malware is a common tool used by cybercriminals to compromise systems and steal data. AI is instrumental in identifying and combating malware. AI-based anti-malware solutions can scan files and network traffic for signs of malicious code. This proactive approach helps prevent malware from infiltrating systems and causing damage. AI and the Future of Security The role of AI in both cyber threats and security is nothing short of transformative. While AI-powered threats are becoming more prominent, AI detection, behavioral analysis, and real-time response have become indispensable in protecting digital assets. As cyber threats evolve, AI remains an ever-vigilant guardian, adapting and defending against new and complex attacks. While AI has its challenges, the benefits it brings to the field of cybersecurity are undeniable. As technology advances, organizations must stay at the forefront of AI-driven security to safeguard their data and digital operations.

Property management has evolved significantly over the years, thanks in large part to the arrival of technology. One of the key decisions that property managers must make is selecting the right technologies and digital solutions to streamline their operations. This decision is critical because the choice of technology can greatly impact the efficiency, profitability, and overall success of the business. BGSF is the only staffing and workforce solutions company in the US that also offers consulting solutions to help you evaluate, select, and implement the right PropTech solution for your properties. Find out more about the right PropTech can help you drive your occupancy and retention rates. Visit: http://www.bgsfknowsproptech.com/ The Goals of Proptech More and more proptech solutions are entering the market to support the growing needs of property managers and enhance the resident experience. Here are some of the ways proptech is contributing to property management. Improving Efficiency: First and foremost, the right property management technologies can enhance efficiency. Automation tools can streamline routine tasks like rent collection, maintenance requests, and lease renewals, reducing the administrative burden on property managers. This allows property management teams to focus on more strategic aspects of their business, such as tenant relations and property improvement projects. Efficiency gains also translate into cost savings, as fewer man-hours are required to manage properties effectively. More Convenient Options: Modern residents expect convenience and transparency, and property management technologies can provide just that. Online portals and mobile apps allow residents to pay rent, submit maintenance requests, and communicate with property managers easily. This not only fosters better tenant relations but also helps to attract and retain renters, ultimately increasing the property’s profitability. Data-driven Decisions: In addition to improving efficiency and resident satisfaction, the right property management technologies can enhance data-driven decision-making. These tools can collect and analyze data related to property performance, market trends, and tenant behavior. This data-driven approach empowers property management companies to make informed decisions about pricing, marketing, and property improvements, ultimately leading to better financial outcomes. Choosing Your Proptech Once you understand what’s available in the market, you can address the following considerations to make the right selection for you. Assess Your Needs: The first step in selecting the right proptech is to assess your specific needs. Every property manager faces unique challenges, and the right technology can help address those challenges efficiently. Understanding your needs will help you narrow down your options and choose a proptech solution that aligns with your goals. Consider the following questions: What are your primary pain points? Are you managing residential or commercial properties, or a combination of both? Do you need tools for screening, lease management, maintenance requests, or financial management? What is the size of your portfolio, and do you anticipate it growing in the near future? Compatibility and Integration: In the era of digitalization, it’s crucial that your proptech solutions seamlessly integrate with your existing systems. Look for software that can be easily integrated with accounting software, marketing platforms, and other tools you use regularly. Integration reduces redundancy, minimizes data entry, and enhances the overall efficiency of your property management operations. User-Friendly Interface: User-friendliness is a key factor when selecting proptech. A complex, hard-to-navigate interface can lead to frustration and reduced productivity. Ensure that the proptech you choose offers an intuitive and easy-to-use interface that both you and your team can quickly adapt to. Scalability: It’s essential to choose proptech that can scale with your business. Scalability ensures that your technology investment remains relevant as your property needs and requirements expand and evolve. Data Security: Property management involves handling sensitive information, including tenant details and financial data. Ensure that the proptech you choose places a strong emphasis on data security. Look for features such as encryption, regular data backups, and user authentication to protect your information. Customer Support and Training: The level of customer support and training offered by a proptech provider is often underestimated but can be a crucial factor in your success. Choose a vendor that offers excellent customer support and comprehensive training resources to help you and your team make the most of the technology. Cost Considerations: Your budget plays a significant role in the proptech selection process. While it’s tempting to go for the most feature-rich option, it’s essential to balance features with your budget and immediate needs. Compare costs, subscription models, and any hidden fees to make an informed decision that aligns with your financial capabilities. Remember that the right proptech is a long-term investment that can lead to increased resident satisfaction, better property management, and ultimately, greater profitability. Take your time to research and test various solutions, and don’t hesitate to seek advice from industry experts who have experience with propech selection and integration. With the right choice, you’ll be on your way to more streamlined operations, an enhanced resident experience, and greater success! As a leader in both property management and IT and technology staffing, BGSF is uniquely positioned to help you design, implement, and maintain your proptech strategies. Find out more!

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but for many in the multifamily industry, it can also be a period of increased demand and stress. From managing an increase in resident demands to covering staffing gaps, property management companies often face a surge in tasks that require immediate attention. This is where the role of temporary staff becomes crucial in maintaining the high standards of service that residents expect. Let’s explore the significance of temporary staff during the holidays and how they can help properties thrive during this festive season. The Need for Holiday Help Handling Increased Resident Requests: The holidays bring with them a wave of resident requests. From maintenance issues and package deliveries to managing common areas, the demand for responsive customer service skyrockets. Temporary staff, whether they are maintenance technicians or front desk personnel, can be a lifesaver during this period. Their presence ensures that residents’ needs are met promptly, allowing the permanent team to focus on long-term strategic tasks. Decorating and Maintaining Common Areas: Holiday decorations and maintaining the common areas to create a festive ambiance can be a time-consuming task. Temporary staff can be invaluable in ensuring that your multifamily property looks welcoming and well-kept. From hanging up holiday lights to cleaning up after gatherings, their contributions can make a significant difference in resident satisfaction. Handling Package Deliveries: Online shopping is at its peak during the holiday season, which translates to an influx of packages being delivered to residents. Temporary staff can assist in sorting and delivering these packages, ensuring that residents receive their parcels promptly. This not only helps maintain order but also contributes to the overall resident experience. Supporting Resident Events: The multifamily industry often hosts holiday events and gatherings for residents. Temporary staff can help in organizing and running these events, from setting up and decorating communal spaces to assisting with catering and clean-up. Their presence allows for a seamless and memorable experience for residents. Filling Gaps in the Schedule: The holiday season can be a challenging time to manage staff schedules due to time-off requests and varying hours of operation. Temporary staff can fill in the gaps, providing extra support during peak times. This flexibility ensures that your multifamily property can continue to offer excellent service without overburdening the permanent team. Temporary staff play a vital role in ensuring that residents receive top-notch service and support during this festive period. Their flexibility, willingness to step in, and dedication to maintaining high standards make them indispensable to the multifamily team during the holidays. By embracing temporary staff, property management companies can enhance resident satisfaction, alleviate stress on their permanent teams, and ensure that the holidays are truly a time of joy for all involved. BGSF is here to assist property managers as they prepare for the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Contact us today and get ahead of the game this year!

In recognition of National Mentoring Day, celebrated annually on October 27, we asked our LinkedIn followers to vote on their preferred mentorship style. According to McCarthy Mentoring, eighty-nine percent (89%) of those who have been mentored say they will mentor others in the future. This prompted us to ask our 209K+ LinkedIn followers for their feedback. Poll Question “What is your preferred style of mentorship?” Poll options included the following: Traditional 1:1 mentorship Group sessions with mentees Peer mentorship Virtual sessions Poll Results We received a total of 333 votes with the results listed below: Traditional 1:1 mentorship received the most votes with 71%, which is unsurprising. According to MentorcliQ.com, traditional 1-to-1 mentoring is the most popular type of DEI mentoring program style according to 38% of workers. Peer mentorship came in second with 17% of votes. Virtual sessions came in third with 8% of votes Group sessions came in last with 5% of votes. Mentorship Course We’ve recently launched a mentoring course as part of our commitment to developing future leaders and creating a culture of learning. Mentorship programs are a key factor in the growth and unity of an organization, offering opportunities for fresh perspectives and personal growth. Mentoring is now #4 on a list of learning and development strategies L&D teams are looking at according to a 2022 L&D Social Sentiment Survey. Why Mentor? A mentor can be an excellent resource for personal and professional development, offering guidance, support, and insight to accelerate your growth and success. LinkedIn’s Workplace Learning Report states that 94% of employees say that they would stay at a company longer if the company invested in helping them learn. Mentorship helps the mentor and the mentee to feel empowered, gain confidence, and may result in a promotion! According to MentorcliQ.com, 91% of employees say they improved their competencies in subject areas based on their mentoring relationship, which aids in employee retention, engagement, and overall ROI for companies. According to a Gallup study, U.S. businesses lose nearly 1 trillion dollars annually to employee turnover and the cost to replace an employee can be up to 2x an employee’s salary. Consider how you can make a positive impact in your workplace by seeking a mentor or mentee and contributing to creating a culture of learning. Let BGSF help you reach your career goals, whether you are looking for a permanent role or a contract role to gain new skills and build your resume. We also provide workforce solutions to assist with your talent search. Search our jobs or contact us!

Digital transformations and the pervasiveness of technology are reaching a variety of new industries. One such sector that’s undergoing a profound shift is maintenance and facility management. Automation, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT), is revolutionizing the maintenance workforce. This synergy between technology and talent is not only optimizing operations but also reshaping job roles, skill requirements, and overall workforce dynamics. Technological Advancements The Rise of Automation in Maintenance: Traditionally, maintenance tasks have relied heavily on manual labor and reactive approaches. However, with the integration of automation, organizations are shifting towards proactive and predictive maintenance strategies. IoT devices and sensors are deployed to monitor equipment health in real-time, enabling early detection of potential issues. This transition from fixing problems as they arise to preventing them before they occur is drastically altering the role of maintenance staff. Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity: One of the primary benefits of automation in maintenance is the significant boost in efficiency and productivity. Routine and time-consuming tasks that were previously handled manually are now automated, freeing up maintenance personnel to focus on more critical tasks that require human expertise. For instance, data analysis and interpretation become crucial as maintenance professionals work alongside machines to analyze the data collected by sensors and make informed decisions. Predictive Maintenance and Reduced Downtime: Predictive maintenance is a cornerstone of the automation revolution. By using machine learning algorithms to analyze historical data, organizations can predict when equipment is likely to fail, allowing for planned maintenance activities. This approach minimizes unexpected downtimes, reduces operational disruptions, and increases equipment lifespan. Maintenance staff now play a pivotal role in fine-tuning these algorithms and interpreting their recommendations. Skill Evolution and Workforce Transition: As automation takes over routine maintenance tasks, the skill set required for maintenance personnel is evolving. Basic technical skills are still important, but they are increasingly supplemented by skills related to data analysis, programming, and technology integration. Maintenance professionals are transitioning to tech-savvy problem solvers who can collaborate with automated systems to optimize processes. Human-Machine Collaboration: The integration of automation in maintenance doesn’t necessarily mean the replacement of human workers by machines. Instead, it’s about collaboration between humans and machines to achieve better outcomes. Maintenance staff members bring critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability to the table, while technology provides accurate data and rapid execution. This synergy leads to more effective decision-making and improved overall performance. Challenges and Considerations While the benefits of automation in maintenance are undeniable, there are challenges to address. Workforce upskilling and reskilling are now top priorities. Organizations need to invest in training programs to equip their staff with the skills needed to work alongside automated systems. Additionally, cybersecurity becomes a critical concern as more devices are connected to networks. Ensuring the safety of sensitive data and the integrity of the systems is paramount. As organizations adopt predictive maintenance, reduce downtime, and enhance overall efficiency, maintenance professionals are evolving into tech collaborators. The future of maintenance is not a battle between humans and machines but a harmonious partnership that leverages the strengths of both to create a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable operational landscape. By embracing automation and investing in workforce development, businesses are positioning themselves to thrive in this era of technological advancement. Did you know that we have our own maintenance training program available to upskill your workforce with the latest technology? Click here to learn more!

As sweltering temperatures sweep across various regions in the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has taken proactive measures to protect workers from the potential risks of heat illness. In response to the excessive heat warnings and advisories issued by the National Weather Service, OSHA released a crucial heat hazard alert on Thursday, urging employers to prioritize the safety and well-being of their workers during scorching weather conditions. Acting Secretary of Labor, Julie Su, stressed the urgency of safeguarding workers from heat-related hazards. Historically, extreme temperatures have put the nation’s workforce at considerable risk, making it crucial for employers to take immediate action to protect their employees. “A workplace heat standard has long been a top priority for the Department of Labor, but rulemaking takes time, and working people need help now,” Su said. “Today, at the president’s request, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued a heat hazard alert to make sure employers follow current standards and that workers across the country know their rights.” Moreover, OSHA’s commitment to safeguarding workers extends to temporary employees. As part of its Temporary Worker Initiative, the agency has offered guidance on protecting temporary workers from heat illnesses. The host employer has been assigned the primary responsibility for developing heat illness and injury programs, ensuring the availability of cool water and shaded rest areas, and implementing other safety measures to prevent heat-related health issues. The recent heat hazard alert and intensified enforcement efforts come at the behest of President Biden, who has emphasized the need for prompt action to protect workers. While the process of rulemaking for a workplace heat standard may take time, the urgent nature of the situation necessitates immediate action to ensure workers’ well-being. By heeding OSHA’s heat hazard alert and following safety guidelines, employers can create a safer work environment and empower workers with the knowledge of their rights and protections against heat-related risks. In the face of rising temperatures, prioritizing worker safety remains a fundamental responsibility for employers across the nation. Read the OSHA note on Temporary Worker Initiative and heat illness guidance here. Making sure you are staffing up for summer is a great way to protect your workers from prolonged exposure to summer heat.  If your property is in need of extra help this summer or you are looking for additional HVAC help to keep your tenants cool, reach out to find out more about how BGSF can assist your property with skilled property managed workers. Contact Us Now!

You may be one of the 36% of workers who plan to leave their current job in 2023. Maybe your current working condition has gotten stale and you’re ready for something more. Maybe you’re looking to enter back into the workforce after taking a break– or enter it for the first time. The apartment industry may be exactly what you’re looking for in your new career! Job security: The demand for rental properties is consistently high, especially in urban areas. This means that a career in the apartment industry can provide long-term job security. Variety of roles: The apartment industry offers a wide range of career options, including property management, leasing, maintenance, and more. This allows for diverse skill sets and interests to be utilized in a single career field. Opportunity for advancement: Many apartment companies offer opportunities for advancement within the organization. As employees gain experience and expertise, they can take on more responsibility and move up the career ladder. Competitive salaries: The apartment industry offers competitive salaries, particularly for those in management positions. Additionally, many companies offer benefits packages and bonuses to their employees. Flexibility: Many apartment industry jobs offer flexible schedules, allowing employees to have a good work-life balance. This is particularly beneficial for those with families or other personal commitments. Customer service: Working in the apartment industry allows individuals to interact with and assist a diverse group of customers. This can be a rewarding and fulfilling aspect of the job. Community involvement: Apartments are often at the center of their communities, and working in the industry allows individuals to be a part of and contribute to the growth and development of these communities. Environmental impact: The apartment industry has the opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment through the implementation of sustainable practices and the use of energy-efficient technologies. Working in this field allows individuals to contribute to the protection of the planet. Overall, a career in the apartment industry can offer job security, a variety of roles, opportunities for advancement, competitive salaries, flexibility, customer service opportunities, community involvement, and the chance to make a positive environmental impact. These are just a few of the many reasons why starting a career in this field can be a rewarding and fulfilling choice.

Whether you’re a seasoned real estate professional or a newbie looking to break into the industry, interviews can be nerve-wracking. With the real estate industry growing as quickly as it is, new positions (and new companies!) are cropping up almost weekly. Be prepared for your next step with our tried and true tips for impressing that HR representative and nailing that interview! Do your research. There’s nothing more sweat-inducing than a question about the company or role that you’re applying for that you weren’t prepared for. Reading about the company, its divisions, its communities and investors is a great way to get familiar with the language and culture of the company you’re looking to work for. Additionally, reading through a job description multiple times is a surefire way to not be caught off-guard during an initial interview. Know what you bring to the table. Being interviewed is as much about getting to know the company as it is selling yourself and your worth. The interviewer wouldn’t waste time if they didn’t see potential in you! Have confidence in your skillset and come prepared with a list of topics that add more color to your resume: certifications, major projects, speaking engagements, etc. can all show a potential employer that you are aware of your value. Dress the part. Whether a virtual interview or in-person, come dressed for the job! A good rule of thumb is that you can’t really be overdressed for an interview. Skip the ballgown though- a smart-looking suit jacket, dress pants, and understated heels is a perfect look for women. For men, a suit jacket, slacks, and tie is always a winning combination. Keep accessories on the conservative side and make sure your hair and nails are groomed. Make an impression. Greet the interviewer with a smile! If you’re on a phone interview, smile before answering a question- they can hear it in your voice! If you’re in person or on camera, sit up straight and place your shoulders back and away from your ears. Keep your arms uncrossed and your body relaxed. Things like fidgeting or bouncing your leg might make you feel better- but it can be distracting to the interviewer and might make them pay more attention to your movements than what you’re saying. Come prepared. Having additional copies of your resume, a portfolio (if necessary) and any visual aids are usually helpful. If you know anyone who works for the company you are hoping to work for, ask them to give you a rundown of what the interview process looks like and what types of questions might be asked. Sites like Glassdoor.com will also give you a look into typical interview questions and salary benchmarks so you can practice answering questions and asking for that salary! Always send a thank you! Whether or not you think the interview went well, always follow up with a thank you note or email to your interviewer. Express gratitude for their time in interviewing you and let them know that you look forward to hearing from them soon. It also sets the expectation that they will reach back out to you to (hopefully!) continue the interview process. Ask questions. At the end of an interview, you’ll inevitably get asked “Do you have any questions for me?”. Be ready with some questions that will not only get you more information about the company but make you unforgettable! Questions like “What do YOU love most about working for this company?” or “Is there anything about my resume that concerns you?” are two great questions to open the door for continued conversation. And, if it hasn’t already been answered, questions like “What does a typical day in this role look like?” help paint a picture of what life at this particular company would look like. If you’re looking to break into the real estate industry, or if you’re looking to explore other opportunities with commercial real estate or multifamily owners or suppliers, BGSF can help. Visit us at BGSF.com and learn more about how we can connect you to your dream job!

When it comes to retaining your skilled team at a time when skilled labor is on the decline and candidates leave in order to gain experience quickly, keeping your team fully staffed is no easy feat. What if you could offer them what THEY and YOU need? An upskilling program that offers them a chance to grow in their career, and you to grow their skills for positions you need to be filled. A program that we offer through Interplay Learning offers exactly that. You can take an entry-level maintenance employee from no experience at all to a groundskeeper in less than 8 weeks. A current groundskeeper can achieve make-ready technician status and a maintenance technician can become HVAC certified- all within 8 weeks. All the way up to maintenance supervisor level, Interplay Learning’s simulation videos and 3D simulations will teach any maintenance person what they need to get to their next career move. Here are the top five reasons to consider upskilling your team: Retain employees for longer. It’s no secret that good help is hard to find these days and even harder when it comes to multifamily maintenance. By offering upskilling opportunities, your maintenance employee can achieve their next career level with YOUR company and stick around for the long haul. Boost team morale. When one person on the team is winning, we’re all winning. By focusing on continuing education for your team members, supporting them in their career goals, and giving them an opportunity to grow, you’re facilitating a stronger and more resilient team overall. And when your team is happy, your community is more stable, organized, and a nicer place to live. Increase employee confidence. Think about the last thing you learned how to do. Format a cell in Excel? Turn a design into vector format? Change an air filter? Imagine your employees’ excitement and confidence that would come from learning several new skills pertaining to their chosen career. Not only would they be eager to show them off, but it could potentially open the door for bigger training roles down the line. Facilitate industry loyalty. With a career in upskill mode, that is, with a focus on their next step in their career, your maintenance employees can not only develop a passion for their chosen career path, but also for the apartment industry as a whole. With a focus exclusively on apartment maintenance, Interplay Learning is able to support your employees at the community level and thus help keep them within our industry long-term; something we can all agree is needed on a nationwide scale! Get back to a full team ASAP. Nearly every apartment community is missing at least one maintenance position. Some are missing more. The best part about Interplay Learning is that they upskill for EVERY maintenance position out there. Pick the position you need filled and let’s get your candidate ready! BONUS- it’s no hassle for you! While your employee is upskilling at their pace, they get the added benefit of using our Client Engagement Manager to help them navigate their learning paths. All you need to do is assign hands-on service requests to them so they can start practicing their new skills at your community to get the hang of it in real life. That’s all! Interested? Chat with our team in your local area to get started today! To find out more about our partnership with Interplay Learning, click here for the press release!

In the rapidly evolving world of real estate, property technology (prop-tech) has emerged as a game-changer, revolutionizing the way property management companies operate and enhancing the resident experience. By integrating innovative solutions into their operations, property management companies can streamline processes, increase efficiency, and ultimately provide a superior experience for their residents. Understanding Prop-Tech and Its Impact on Property Management Prop-tech refers to the application of technology and digital innovations to the real estate industry. It encompasses a wide range of solutions, including smart building systems, IoT devices, mobile apps, and data analytics platforms. These technologies enable property managers to monitor, control, and enhance various aspects of their properties, leading to improved operational efficiency and resident satisfaction. Enhancing the Resident Experience Through Prop-Tech Solutions One of the key benefits of prop-tech solutions is their ability to streamline communication between property managers and residents. Mobile apps and online portals provide a centralized platform where residents can easily report issues, request services, or access important information. This improves response times, reduces friction, and enhances overall resident satisfaction. Available Prop-Tech Solutions Smart Building Systems: Prop-Tech solutions enable the implementation of smart building systems, which leverage IoT devices and sensors to optimize energy efficiency, security, and comfort within a property. For example, automated temperature control, occupancy sensors, and smart lighting systems can enhance resident comfort while reducing energy costs. This not only creates a positive living or working environment but also contributes to sustainability efforts. Personalized Resident Services: By leveraging data analytics and customer relationship management (CRM) systems, property management companies can gain insights into resident preferences and behavior. This allows them to provide personalized services tailored to individual needs, such as customized notifications, maintenance schedules, or amenity bookings. Personalization fosters resident loyalty and enhances their overall experience. Property Management Software: Advanced property management software provides a comprehensive platform to streamline operations, including lease management, rent collection, maintenance tracking, and financial reporting. These tools automate time-consuming tasks, reduce paperwork, and provide real-time insights, enabling property managers to focus more on delivering exceptional resident experiences. Resident Experience Platforms: Resident experience platforms integrate various prop-tech solutions into a centralized interface, offering residents a seamless digital experience. These platforms often include features such as maintenance requests, community forums, event calendars, and online payment options. They enhance resident satisfaction by providing convenient and efficient ways to interact with the property management company and fellow residents. Virtual Property Tours: Innovative prop-tech solutions enable the creation of virtual property tours, allowing potential residents to explore properties remotely. Virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) technologies offer an immersive experience, showcasing the property to a wider audience. While prop-tech has the potential to transform and enhance the real estate industry, it is important to note that its successful implementation relies on effective collaboration between property management companies, technology providers, and residents. It is crucial for property managers to carefully assess their specific needs and select solutions that align with their goals and objectives. Then, by leveraging these aligned, innovative solutions, property managers can optimize their processes, increase resident satisfaction, and position themselves for success in an increasingly digital world. As a leader in both property management and IT & Technology Staffing, BGSF is uniquely positioned to help you design, implement, and maintain your prop tech strategy. Find out more about how we can help you improve your resident experience and retention. Find out more!