We had the good fortune of connecting with Lynsee Mann and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lynsee, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
In the time I have worked in multifamily living, my perception of work life balance and the importance of it in each team members’ life has shifted dramatically. When I first started in the industry and especially as a new manager, I saw my ability to be “plugged in” and constantly available to my teams as a strong leadership quality. After all, if they had any questions or needed advice, wouldn’t a good manager be available to provide it at all times? As I developed my management style and learned from past missteps, I realized that not only was this doing a disservice to myself and my mental health, but it was also a disservice to my team.
Being a strong leader means setting an example. I recognize after many years of failing at it, that I am only my best manager when I have the ability to take time away to reset and recharge. Additionally, being constantly available to solve problems takes away the another individual’s ability to think on their feet and grow from the experience. I empower my team to attempt to resolve an issue before bringing it to me, and even then, come with solutions for us to evaluate together. I also set a firm stance that days off are just that: days out of the office. I have set a boundary that unless it is an absolute emergency, I am not checking my emails during the weekend. I also ask my team to unplug and do the same. We are all better at taking care of our residents and a stronger team when we have the ability to enjoy our lives outside of the office and come back with a clear head.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Like many, I fell into the multifamily industry while looking for an apartment. I had just made the decision to move to Colorado from San Francisco (having left MT the year before) and needed a place to live. Additionally, having worked in retail and restaurants throughout high school, college and post graduation, the majority of my work background revolved around people. After starting in the industry as a leasing agent, I worked up the ranks, absorbing a multitude of lessons through the years. While I had experience with the people piece of the role, I learned quickly that the emotion working in the business of someone’s home carries an additional weight. Managing a home means being responsible for their safe haven, their escape. Learning to navigate the difficult conversations, the grey situations, and the downright devastating moments with empathy and understanding is what has helped me grow in the role. At the root of my responsibilities as a manager is the people. I may not always have the answers, but if I am operating with this in mind, the resolution will unfold naturally.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Denver has so much! Depending on the season, some of the big highlights include Red Rocks, a Denver Nuggets game or Rockies game, and maybe a day trip up to Evergreen or Estes for gorgeous hikes and views. Of course, food is a big piece of the puzzle- I would start the day with brunch at Acova (on the patio if weather permits), then head to Bigsby’s Folly for wine tasting and light bites. I would end the night somewhere with dinner on a great patio to take in the views- The Woods and El Five are favorites. A trip to Denver isn’t complete without spending some time exploring Union Station and Larimer Square as well! Swinging through Garage Sale Vintage and Hailee Grace for some fun shopping, grabbing a glass of wine at Corridor 44 before dinner at Bao Brewhouse (upstairs with the DJ and mood lighting) followed by a comedy show at Comedy Works or dancing the night away at Disco Pig. There is so much to experience!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Kairoi Residential for affording me the opportunity to grow with a company whose care for their people (associates and residents alike) is not just a statement, but embodied by actions.
Website: www.liveatbromley.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynsee-mann-cam-16810b6a/