5 Strategies for Cultivating a Positive Company Culture

The long hours and demanding clients make a career in the multifamily industry challenging. That’s why Michelle Jenson is dedicated to creating a positive work environment where employees feel valued and supported.

Jenson is the Chief Property Officer at P.B. Bell, one of the oldest multifamily management firms in the Phoenix metro area. She joined the company in October, succeeding Debbie Willis, who retired after 40 years with the firm.

Jenson’s top priorities include ensuring that P.B. Bell remains inclusive, collaborative, and supportive—qualities that have led to long employee tenures and best-place-to-work accolades from local media.

“I think the culture at P.B. Bell is second to none,” says Jenson, who brings over 20 years of experience in the multifamily industry to the management firm.

Here are five tips for fostering a people-centered workplace:

Michelle Jenson Chief Property Officer P.B. Bell

Establish a Sense of Belonging

With employees scattered across properties, it’s easy to feel disconnected. “We strive to bridge the gap between the corporate office and our on-site teams through various programs and events,” Jenson says. Corporate managers regularly visit properties to work closely with on-site teams. Events like On-site Appreciation Day, Maintenance Appreciation Week, and an all-employee year-end celebration show gratitude and build camaraderie, fostering teamwork and collaboration.

Prioritize Work-Life Balance

The multifamily industry often demands long hours and tight schedules, making work-life balance challenging. P.B. Bell addresses this by offering benefits such as a four-and-a-half-day workweek at the corporate office, allowing employees more time for personal commitments and family. “We talk to our employees to gauge their needs,” Jenson says. “We want them to eat dinner with their families every night.”

Invest in Employee Growth and Development

P.B. Bell promotes internal career growth through career path planning, mentoring, coaching, and advancement opportunities. By investing in employees' professional development, P.B. Bell ensures a motivated and engaged workforce.

Reward Outstanding Work

Employees who embody P.B. Bell’s values—creativity, integrity, accountability, caring, and enjoyment—can be nominated for a cash bonus, recognizing their contributions.

Consult a Culture Coach

A culture coach helps analyze employee morale, leadership styles, and team dynamics, identifying areas for improvement. “We have a culture coach who spends time with our leadership team, ensuring people feel valued, appreciated, and recognized, and provides us with the tools to do that,” Jenson notes.

Conclusion

These measures can be implemented by most multifamily companies and, in the case of P.B. Bell, have resulted in a connected, engaged workforce that positions the firm as a nimble operation offering customized solutions.

“We’re focused on building the third-party management side of the business, and there’s a significant opportunity for a boutique operator like us to shine right now,” Jenson says.