Self-storage managers and operators share many traits—they're often, hard-working, no-nonsense, fun and caring people. But when it comes to executing the job and dealing with challenges varying from lien laws to salting icy sidewalks and driveways, not every self-storage person has to jump the same hurdles.

For example, in sunny California a manager might not have to worry about shoveling as much snow as those in Colorado, but the most populous state in the union also has some of the most litigious requirements regarding liens and auctions. Similarly, self-storage personnel in Ireland face a different customer demographic and a different marketing challenge than those in, for example, Texas.

Traditionally, self-storage staff reach out to their state associations for help and local connections. That's a great strategy because your association is likely a tremendous resource. You might consider augmenting that strategy by checking out the Forums by State and Country section of Self-Storage Talk.

Here, rooms for all 50 states and the District of Columbia in the U.S. are listed, and most of the posters in those rooms will be people who can truly help you with your state-specific questions.

Users from the Bay Area—and there is quite a contingent of them on the forum—have used this thread to talk local issues and meet each other. You'll also notice developers and business people looking to expand self-storage in a certain state might find an outlet here.

Additionally, the International forum serves all of the non-Yanks on the forum, those who have something to share or ask that doesn't pertain to the United States. Self-storage is a thriving global industry, and with members from as far away as China, Self-Storage Talk reflects that globalization.

If you haven't visited your state or country's forum yet, give it a try. Likewise, if you haven't given Self-Storage Talk a try yet, you can register here.