wage package for staff

[Gary Schenkelberg]

Chrissy,
It is time to review all our employees pay and initiate raises as deserved but I want to take advantage of the situation to benefit both them in income and us (the community) in improved performance. As I was pondering how to do this it struck me that if I wanted the best advice that I better ask you. Could you please offer me some ideas about possible incentives to help our staff (office,sales & maintenance) perform more efficiently and at the same time be rewarded for their efforts?

Thank you very much,
Gary Schenkelberg
Manager-Colonial Oaks Manufactuered Home Park
Elyria, Ohio

[Chrissy]

The best way is to make an incentive program which is based on employees reaching measurable goals. These goals should be goals that will improve the community in some way, yet be attainable within the parameters of normal work. Maybe you are currently subcontracting out some work that would be less expensive if someone on staff had the ability to do it - such as taking care of a pool. By setting a goal for them to earn their Certified Pool Operator's license or get appropriate training, they would then be entitled to a bonus - say a percentage of the money you will save by not having an outside person doing it.

For the office, goals are usually tied to declining delinquencies or increasing economic occupancy. Have you done a resident survey lately? If so, discuss honestly with your employees where shortcomings are in the eyes of your customers. Brainstorm ways to improve your ratings. Then, turn them loose for a few months, with an evaluation next quarter. Continue fine-tuning your employee skills in customer service, and in the areas noted on the resident survey. Next year, when you do anoher resident survey, if the opinions of your customers show an improvement, award a bonus to your employees.

Be careful when assigning responsibility - be sure they have an appropriate amount of authority to accomplish what you want them to do. And, always beware of the hours they work to achieve their goals. Sacrificing one thing to achieve another is not progress. Good luck to you - employees, when properly motivated and compensated can make your community more than you ever dreamed possible!