Survival Boot Camp, an interactive workshop created by Smart Apartment Solutions, is revolutionizing property management by offering an engaging and dynamic learning experience for property managers and their teams. This innovative program, developed in partnership with Kathy Banker from Lease UP!!, has been providing property management professionals with essential skills in a fun and interactive manner since its inception in 2009. In this article, we’ll explore how Survival Boot Camp is ideal for property managers and why it’s a game-changer in the industry.
A Fresh Approach to Learning:
Survival Boot Camp was born out of the desire to make training in property management more enjoyable and effective. The founders, including Dawn Ford and Kathy Banker, recognized the need for a training program that could engage property managers across different job positions, including maintenance, leasing, management, owners, and regional managers. To accomplish this, they decided to create reenactments and scenarios, turning seemingly mundane topics into exciting and interactive experiences.
Themes That Engage:
One of the standout features of Survival Boot Camp is its ability to adapt to various themes. The original course follows a tropical theme, akin to the hit TV show “Survivor,” complete with tribal councils, different tribes, music, fires, and inflatable jungle animals. This engaging theme not only captures participants’ attention but also fosters a sense of teamwork and cooperation.
Recently, Survival Boot Camp demonstrated its flexibility by adapting to a Western theme, inspired by the TV show “Yellowstone.” This versatility allows the program to remain relevant and engaging, catering to diverse preferences and conference themes.
Key Elements of Survival Boot Camp:
Survival Boot Camp focuses on four key areas:
1. Time Management: The program addresses the importance of time management and the ability to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance and big rocks concept. Participants learn these skills through engaging scenarios.
2. Dealing with Difficult People: Survival Boot Camp helps property managers develop skills in empathetic listening, mental health awareness, and first aid training, all of which are essential in the field. Scenarios featuring persistent callers and angry residents provide hands-on experience.
3. Critical Thinking: This section equips participants with critical thinking skills, allowing them to handle complex situations effectively and make sound decisions. Participants apply these skills to scenarios involving early move-ins, cash payments, and regional manager expectations.
4. Disaster Preparedness: In this segment, participants learn vital survival skills, including disaster preparedness and effective team leadership during crises. Scenarios featuring apartment tours with various unexpected issues help property managers understand how to handle emergencies.
Competitive Learning:
One unique aspect of Survival Boot Camp is the competitive element. Teams work together to solve scenarios and present their solutions to a “tribal council” or “livestock commissioners.” Winners of each round are rewarded with highly coveted ranch or jungle animals. This competitive edge adds an extra layer of engagement and motivation.
Positive Feedback and Future Possibilities:
Survival Boot Camp has received rave reviews from participants and facilitators alike. The program’s interactive approach, adaptable themes, and competitive learning style make it a favorite among property management professionals.
Looking to the future, there are discussions about introducing additional versions of the workshop, such as a space-themed or underwater-themed program. This demonstrates the commitment of Smart Apartment Solutions to continuously innovate and provide fresh and engaging learning experiences for property managers.
Survival Boot Camp offers property managers a unique and effective way to develop essential skills while having a great time. With its adaptable themes, competitive learning style, and positive feedback, it has become a must-have training program in the property management industry.
Whether you’re an individual property manager or part of a property management team, Survival Boot Camp is an ideal choice for improving your skills and having fun while doing so. Don’t miss the opportunity to bring this exciting workshop to your team and enhance your property management capabilities.
