During the pandemic, many companies pivoted to a remote-working model. The shift has proven successful for employers and is greatly desired by potential employees. If your self-storage company is using or considering this option for staff, here are some tips to help you handle the related administrative challenges.

Cristina Bouchard, CEO and President

June 16, 2022

2 Min Read
Building a Human Resources Strategy for Remote Self-Storage Employees

Reprinted with permission from the SBOA Weekly Newsletter.

As technology advances and creates greater workplace capabilities, more employers are shifting to a remote-work model, fully or as a hybrid option. Though the COVID-19 outbreak certainly accelerated this transition, the move has proven successful for many companies because it allows for business continuity and increases employee productivity and satisfaction. Many self-storage suppliers have embraced it and even some facility operators.

As more businesses adopt a work-from-home approach, it’s increasingly important to be open to the possibility. Today, most job applicants place flexible work options at the top of their priority list, with increased demand for fully remote positions. So, what does this mean for you as a self-storage employer?

For starters, you’re able to cast a much wider net when looking for talent, meaning you’ll be able to select from the top applicants on a national level. However, managing a virtual office environment can create a unique set of administrative human resources challenges, especially when it comes to handling employees’ important documents and data. Here are just a few tips to help you navigate the new landscape:

When hiring, use an applicant-tracking system (ATS). This helps you manage the entire process, from posting jobs to conducting interviews, allowing you to keep applicants’ information organized.

Implement an electronic onboarding system. These platforms handle all the forms your employees need to complete as they transition from candidate to new hire. Make sure your ATS and onboarding system work together automatically for a seamless transition.

Use a remote-time and attendance platform. Getting help to track employee timesheets, paid time off and other related information can save your company valuable energy. It can also help you increase efficiency, improve internal controls and reduce costs, regardless of where your employees work.

Use electronic payroll. Mail delays can be caused by many unforeseen factors, which can negatively impact the delivery of employee paychecks. One way to prevent interruptions is to move beyond paper checks and use an electronic payment option. For example, you can set up direct deposit or use pay cards.

When in doubt, talk to an expert! One of the benefits to hiring remote workers is the larger talent pool, especially if you look beyond your state borders. However, hiring and managing remote employees can bring additional legal considerations that may vary by state. Talking to an HR expert can help prevent costly errors.

Cristina Bouchard is CEO and president of AlphaStaff, a professional employer organization that offers a suite of human resources services, technology solutions, employee-benefit offerings and more. She has more than 17 years of experience in account management, employee-benefits sales and operations, and general management. AlphaStaff is a partner of the Storage Business Owners Alliance, a buying group for U.S. self-storage operators. For more information, call 954.267.1760.

About the Author(s)

Cristina Bouchard

CEO and President, AlphaStaff

Cristina Bouchard is CEO and president of AlphaStaff, a professional employer organization that offers a suite of human resources services, technology solutions, employee-benefit offerings and more. She has more than 17 years of experience in account management, employee-benefits sales and operations, and general management. AlphaStaff is a partner of the Storage Business Owners Alliance, a buying group for U.S. self-storage operators. For more information, call 954.267.1760.

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