Ask Habitat: How Can I Keep Better Track of the Building's Cart So Tenants Stay Happy?

HABITAT ANSWERS: The doorman has a lot to keep track of already. When you have to figure out where the cart is, it means you have to abandon your post — something you want to keep to a minimum. First things first, you'll want to approach the board with the situation. It's good for them to know what's happening in the building, good or bad, as a matter of course, especially when building staff are trying to improve a troublesome situation.

Before you present your problem to them, however, you'll want to prepare some possible solutions for them as well. They will appreciate you taking the initiative and rather than reporting a problem, taking the opportunity to showcase your ability troubleshoot.

Let's look at some solutions.

Ask the board to draft some rules about using the cart and distribute to all building residents and post in all common areas. These rules should include either returning the cart as soon as they are done with it, or calling you at the desk to let you know they are sending it down to you in the elevator.

Have building residents sign or initial every time they use the cart. Best-case scenario, the act of doing so might make them feel more inclined to return it. Worst-case scenario, if it disappears, you can at least see who had it last.

If there's enough storage space for it, ask the board whether they would consider getting a second cart for the building.

So present the problem to the board in a positive manner: there is no system in place for residents to use the building's cart, and it's not only causing a disturbance among residents but also taking you away from your post. Follow up with your solutions, and close by saying that you look forward to their input as well so you can help streamline processes and minimize frustration for busy building residents.

Good luck, and thanks for reading! 

Have a question for us? Let us know! 

For more, see our Site Map or join our Archive >>