Michelle Grana | Portfolio Manager
What do you love about your career?
I have always loved walking industrial buildings and learning all about my tenant’s business. You learn so much about the supply chain and can apply much of it to your life. I have been to some buildings where the inner-workings were just fascinating. I am also a problem solver by nature and I love being able to do that for people and maybe provide some relief in their day. Additionally, I truly enjoy my current position because it allows me the ability to help my team members grow and achieve their personal career goals. That is where I see the most satisfaction in my job. It’s all about those proud moments.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career?
Be open to every opportunity to learn. Be a sponge. Ask a lot of questions…no questions are silly! I learned everything that I know about property management from on the job training and it is an important part of your success. Additionally, identify your mentors and role models. They will be vital to your initial growth and the foundation of your knowledge.
What advice have you received that has helped you in your career?
Don’t be a pushover. Stand your ground when you really believe in something and be ready to support your position. People will respect your conviction.
What makes a good role model? Have you had one that has made an impact in your life/career?
A good role model is willing to share everything he/she knows without worrying about the “student” eventually surpassing him/her in his/her success. As a role model, you have to be an open book and a good listener. You have to identify where your team member may be not only in their current position but where he/she wants to be 1 year, 3 years, 5 years from now and work from there. You need to show in your actions what it is to be successful, not just in your words.
I have had two great role models in my career. One taught me everything I know about industrial real estate (which turned out to be quite helpful) and and the other has taught me how to be a good leader and to use my knowledge to add value to meetings, conversations, my client relationships, the company, my team, etc. All those are skills I use every day and try to improve on every day as well as a part of my personal growth.
Any additional thoughts you can share?
Property Management is a tough, thankless job most of the time. You need to find what provides you with the sense of satisfaction in your day because people will not always be lining up to thank you or tell you how wonderful you are! Knowing that you can provide the solution to a problem can be satisfying in itself. Being an integral and successful part of a team can be amazing and trust me, your teammates appreciate you!