The (Not-So) Hidden Link Between Happy Strata Managers And Happy Communities

Managing owners corporations can be very fulfilling, focused on resolving issues and building genuine relationships with clients. However, given it directly impacts people’s homes and lives, it comes with its fair share of challenges and stress. It’s a high-volume, high-stakes role, and that sometimes means solving unsolvable problems or navigating decisions that leave some people happy and others… not so much.

As important as the job is, it rarely comes with applause. Strata managers aren’t in it for the thanks. They’re in it because they care about making things work. But no matter how much they care, even the best managers need support to keep from burning out. That’s why prioritising in staff mental wellbeing isn’t just the latest trend, it’s a strategic investment that directly enhances and strengthens relationships with your clients.

The Unique Challenges Of Being An Owners Corporation Manager

A body corporate manager’s actions are sometimes visible, like organising fence repairs, landscaping upgrades and organising piles and piles of rubbish to be removed. More often than not though, a strata manager is working behind the scenes, comparing quotes from trades to repair the driveway to ensure that the project is completed to the standard that the owners expect, or hassling insurance companies to provide updates on insurance claims. They’re reviewing financial statements from previous years and performing cashflow analyses to prepare budgets for future financial years, or working on resolving disputes between two or more owners.

Some problems come with no clear solution, requiring creativity and a lot of patience. Then there’s the challenge of navigating owner conflicts. Imagine implementing a solution approved by some owners while others vehemently oppose it. You’re essentially the referee in an endless match with no rule book.

It’s a role where the value of the work is often invisible, measured more by the absence of problems than by acknowledgment of success. But while owners corporation managers may not always be in the spotlight, their efforts are critical to keeping communities functioning smoothly.

Why Should Owners Care About The Wellbeing Of Their Body Corporate Manager?

So, what happens when companies don’t prioritise mental health? Starting at the individual level: burnout becomes the norm, stress levels soar, and job satisfaction plummets.

The ripple effects of neglecting staff mental wellbeing are hard to miss. Stressed employees are more likely to make mistakes, struggle with clear communication, and, understandably, come across as rude or short-tempered (a very common complaint we hear from owners looking to change to Resi). Over time, poor mental health among staff erodes client relationships, increases turnover rates and leaves companies caught in a never-ending cycle of rehiring and retraining. The result is a damaged reputation, not only with clients but also as an employer of choice.

Supporting mental health is like building a strong foundation for a house. When staff feel supported, they have the stability and strength to handle challenges without cracking under the weight. They communicate more effectively, creating smoother and more productive interactions with clients and colleagues alike.

What Are We Doing To Tackle This Problem At Resi?

Promoting mental wellbeing isn’t just about good intentions, it’s about putting meaningful actions in place. Here’s how Resi actively supports our team:

• Creating A Supportive Culture: We encourage open conversations about mental health, ensuring our staff feel safe to share their challenges. Our team knows they’re supported, not judged, when they need to talk.
• Considered And Balanced Portfolios: Each strata manager’s portfolio is thoughtfully sized, so no one feels overwhelmed. By balancing workloads carefully, we create space for employees to give their clients the attention they deserve without sacrificing their own wellbeing.
• Celebrating Success: Appreciation matters. Whether it’s celebrating milestones, birthdays, or a job well done, we make sure our team knows their hard work is seen and valued.
• Streamlining Processes: Efficiency is key to reducing stress. We’ve simplified our operations to eliminate duplication and unnecessary administrative tasks, allowing our team to focus on meaningful work instead of getting bogged down by paperwork.
• Offering Flexibility: Life isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is work. That’s why we provide flexible work arrangements, including options for remote work and mental health days. Regular team check-ins help foster camaraderie and ensure everyone feels connected, no matter where they’re working.

Conclusion

Owners corporation management is a dynamic and rewarding role, focused on solving complex problems and fostering strong relationships. For body corporate managers, the greatest satisfaction and fulfillment comes from seeing the direct impact of their work.

No role is ever smooth sailing, and strata management is no exception here. The challenges are real, and they can pile up fast. Burnout isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a serious issue that can leave even the most capable managers struggling.

By prioritising mental wellbeing, owners corporation managers can thrive. And when managers thrive, so do the communities they support. It’s a win for everyone, from owners to managers to the broader community.