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DGS 86: Utilizing Remote Assistants with Gwenn Aspen
Description
Today, I am talking to Gwenn Aspen of Anequim, which offers remote assistant, Rent Manager call center, and Rent Manager software consulting services. Also, Gwenn and her husband, Jeremy, own the Wistar Group, a property management company.
You'll Learn...[04:40] How helping a friend, helped property management companies hire employees.
[05:20] Currently, 150 employees in Mexico work remotely for property management companies in the United States and Canada.
[06:25] Connections and Relationships: Life is all about taking care of and looking out for those you know and love.
[06:50] Internal References and Cultural Differences: Holding each other accountable results in low turnover/high retention.
[08:20] Managers Managing Remotely: If you manage someone who works remotely, get to know them as a human being.
[10:51] Webcam: Teams founded on trust and transparency should be seen and heard.
[14:50] For better or worse, Anequim and Wistar Group are unique and original company names that could be patented to prevent being sued.
[16:45] Finding a Good Fit: Anequim helps potential clients identify things that they don't like to do and give them to someone who does.
[20:51] Time vs. Energy: Avoid burnout by identifying what fills or drains your energy.
[22:20] Onboarding Training: Includes four ways to not die in property management.
[26:12] Vetting Team Members: Extensive process of selecting candidates for clients.
[29:47] Working in Mexico: No background checks possible or databases available.
[34:09] Progress, not Perfection: Help property managers move forward and feel confident in making a commitment.
[38:21] Anequim Structure: Assistants, solution agents, and others handle 1,200 units.
[42:36] Every business needs systems: Planning, process, documentation, and communication.
TweetablesPower of the Webcam with Virtual Teams: Just be there, and be seen.
Time and Attention: A manager's most important resources; use them wisely.
Word to the Wise: Keep your clothes on when training employees.
Our job is to make sure people are happy with their candidates.
ResourcesFirst, Break All the Rules: What the World's Greatest Managers Do Differently
Americans with Disabilities Act