Self-storage managers looking for insight to better execute their day-to-day facility operation can participate in an arrangement of educational seminars devoted to their specific issues and needs at the Inside Self-Storage World Expo, March 30-April 1, in Las Vegas. The Management Track on March 31 includes six sessions that will delve into topics including expense management, collections, facility maintenance and more.
The day begins at 9 a.m. with an in-depth look at minimizing costs and maximizing facility revenue. Hosted by Collin Duncan, senior director of operations support for Extra Space Storage Inc., the seminar will include information on averaging payroll costs, how to take advantage of economies-of-scale benefits, and why operators should consider solar panels.
The 10 a.m. seminar, led by Brad North, president of Advantage Consulting & Management, will offer advice on creating a successful collections program. Operators will learn tested, tried and proven collection techniques, how to create an effective system and set goals.
Tron Jordheim, CEO of PhoneSmart, will host the 11 a.m. seminar, which offers a hand-on sales practicum. He’ll include demonstrations on guiding the sales conversation with customers and best practices for phone sales.
The afternoon program begins at 1 p.m. with a session designed to help managers polish their customer-service skills. Led by Stephan Ross, president of Cutting Edge Self Storage Management & Consulting, the seminar will include advice on dealing with difficult customers, procedures operators should have and how to handle special requests.
Carol Mixon Krendl, president of SkilCheck Services Inc. will host the 2 p.m. seminar, which focuses on self-storage pricing strategies. Operators will learn how and when to raise rental rates, and how management software can help them maximize income.
The last session of the day, at 3 p.m., explores facility maintenance, including creating a budget and routines, and the role technology plays in keeping a facility in top shape. Presenter Jamey Fawcett, president and chief operating officer of Accent Building Restoration, will cover proactive vs. reactive maintenance, recent changes in self-storage maintenance needs, and what to look for in a third-party maintenance company.
The expo’s concurrent education program, March 31 and April 1, includes 10 tracks covering issues related to self-storage ownership, management, marketing, investment, finance, building, development, liability and more. Five add-on workshop options are also available. The conference and tradeshow will take place at the Paris Hotel & Resort. Discount registration rates are available through March 28.
Created for self-storage owners, managers, developers, investors and suppliers, the ISS Expo is the industry’s largest conference and tradeshow, comprising four days of education, exhibits and networking opportunities. The event focuses on strategies for generating revenue, best practices, current trends, and new products and services. Details and online registration are available at www.insideselfstorageworldexpo.com.
