3 Things I Learned From Job Shadowing

Ever wonder what your coworkers in a different area or department of your company do? At Camden, there are many different roles, responsibilities and positions that contribute to the big picture and help us succeed. I work in the HR department and always found myself wondering what the operations side of our company looked like and what the typical day of a Community Manager, Leasing Consultant, or Groundskeeper may consist of? I would often hear stories of onsite life but always wanted to go out and experience this for myself. Recently I had the opportunity to do just that! I spent two days at Camden Travis Street and can honestly say, the experience has made me a better employee. Here’s why:

 

The view from a different desk:

 

We all work for the same company, abide by the same values, and have the same ultimate goal in mind. Camden’s WHY is to improve the lives of others, one experience at a time. A big take away from my job shadowing experience was the realization that although all of our bottom lines are the same, the vehicle in which we carry out our WHY is quite different, depending on where we work. I was able to literally view our WHY from a different desk, which in turn gave me another view and a better glimpse at the bigger picture. Our customers come first.

 

I was both amazed and so proud to witness for the first time what serving our customers looked like from the front end. Working in the HR department, I hardly ever interact with residents and for the first time I was able to see just how gifted Camden’s office staff is and the difference they truly make. Seeing the level of customer service EVERYONE provided anytime a current resident or prospect walked through the door was absolutely amazing. Watching the Groundskeeper and Make Ready care for the property and take extra effort to make an apartment ready was unbelievable. I had no clue the amount of work that goes into tending to the exterior and interior of our properties to ensure that they are kept to Camden standard! I was able to see Camden’s values played out right before me.

 

 

 

Out of my comfort zone and into new relationships!

 

I have to admit, although I was pumped about getting to see another side of our business, I was very anxious and a little intimidated. I didn’t know what to expect and definitely had to force myself out of my comfort zone. As soon as I stepped foot into the office and got to meet the team, all those little nerves went away! I was greeted with warm smiles and hugs, of course! One of the leasing consultants immediately began to “tour me” as if I were a prospect to show me what this process looked like. By the end of the tour, I wanted to rent an apartment and sign a lease! I am a better employee because this experience gave me the opportunity to get to know and spend time with co-workers I don’t usually get the chance to interact with. Even more importantly, I spent a day in their shoes and was able to gain a better understanding of not only what they do, but what I could bring back and do differently in my own position. My job is to support them. They are my ‘customer’ and stepping into their world reminded me of that. 

 

 

 

Understanding the importance of the BIG PICTURE

 

It’s hard to see the big picture while inside the frame. In order to understand how we all come together and make Camden great, you should try to understand and see the whole picture. Not just your own part. Ultimately, the experience was one that I can say I definitely grew from and value as an employee. I won’t let this be the last time I take myself out of my routine and step out to experience another area to see where I can add more value. I encourage you to get out there and do the same!