Psychologist have had some time to study the attributes of multitasking only to determine that in many instances the potential gains are overshadowed by a lack actual productivity. I submit that multitasking has limited value in our business as compared to delegation. In too many instances these two management tools are confused with multitasking gaining credit when delegation is the real productivity engine.
A professional football team has twenty-two coaches to address 53 players. That’s right- twenty-two. It may seem unfair that only the head coach gets TV time but that’s the way it is. He has at his disposal an offensive and defensive coordinator, strength coaches, line coaches, a quarterback coach, wide receivers coach, a coach for linebackers, one for safety’s and defensive backs. There is a doctor, trainer and equipment manager. This excludes the specialist that come in such as technique specialist and psychologist.
In property management we too have ample people at our disposal from leasing staff to maintenance positions. We have our specialist such as HVAC and plumbing. Are we using our people to their fullest potential? As a property manager do you keep things on your desk that should be in the hands of one of your team members? Are you multitasking at the expense of delegation?
Multitasking has it’s place. We all do it as we navigate professional careers, family, personal and professional commitments. Consider the advantages of extending your productivity by utilization of the team around you. The advantages of appropriate delegation slam dunk multitasking. It’s in the category of a 10X engine to free up your time and focus on management versus routine- routine in a way that the task at hand has a place and is important- you just have to decide who should have it.
If your position is to address property-wide, portfolio-wide or company-wide strategy then that is your priority. Place the right tools and training in the hands of your team and focus on these higher level objectives. Delegate where appropriate and direct your working hours on those tasks that have the highest return for your company.
Mr. Wilhoit is the author of two books: How To Read A Rent Roll: A Guide to Understanding Rental Income and Multifamily Insight Vol 1 – How to Acquire Wealth Through Buying the Right Multifamily Assets in the Right Markets.
For information on property management audio courses, books and our live weekly leadership academy, visit PowerHour Books and Courses.
About This Blog: Multifamily Insight is dedicated to assisting current and future multifamily property owners, operators and investors in executing specific tasks that allow multifamily assets to operate at their highest level of efficiency. We discuss real world issues in multifamily property management and acquisitions. This blog is intended to be informational only and does not provide legal, financial or accounting advice. Seek professional counsel. www.MultifamilyInsight.com