The Benefit of Participating in Community Events

Thanks, Danielle Pancheri of STORAGExperts, for taking the time for this blog interview!

Participating in Community Events is Fun Marketing!

STORAGExperts in the Ahwatukee Foothills participated in the Light Up Ahwatukee Holiday Festival this year, and we had a blast. This is our second year participating, and being in the Ahwatukee Foothills of Arizona, we are a smaller storage facility. We make an effort to engage in these events to raise brand awareness. Smaller facilities like ours often fly under the radar, and many people are unaware of our location, so participating in these events helps us tremendously by getting our name out into the community and showing our local residents that we are part of their city.

The HOA regulations in Ahwatukee require us to paint our buildings in colors that blend in, which adds to our visibility challenges. Participating in events like this offers a great opportunity to connect with the community. This year, I got involved for the first time, but last year our store manager participated, and I was really glad to join her this time!

What’s the Big Giveaway This Year?

About six months ago, we introduced our merch bags, and they quickly became a big hit at events like this. At these community gatherings, vendors offer a variety of small giveaways, and it’s exciting to see everyone eagerly grabbing goodie bags. Because of this, we have become the go-to booth for those searching for a great bag, and we’ve had a lot of takers!

Are You Reaching Potential Tenants?

Yes!  We engage with many people, even those who may not need extra storage. We seize this opportunity to share details about our referral program and raise awareness about our services for any future needs. Additionally, we have built valuable relationships with local realtors who participate in this program. These realtors can refer a specific number of clients to us, and we reward them with Amazon e-gift cards based on the size of the storage unit rented. At events like this, we connect with local business owners and forge lasting relationships. 

Are Most of Your Booth Visitors Locals?

We operate three facilities in Phoenix, and this particular Ahwatukee facility serves the entire area. Many people travel from different parts of the valley; for example, individuals from Goodyear, just half an hour away, visit because they have family living in our neighborhood. As a result, you frequently meet people from all over the valley here who might need our storage services one day.

What’s Your Biggest Takeaway?

My biggest takeaway is that as an owner, participating in events with your managers is essential. It fosters a sense of teamwork; you’re not just sitting in an office. When an owner actively engages, it boosts morale. For instance, our manager at this location has expressed that she struggles to talk to people and to be outspoken. I try to demonstrate how to communicate our referral program effectively while I’m with her, and it helps boost an employee’s confidence to get out and practice these skills.

It’s valuable to engage in these activities with your managers because it sets an example. If I’m participating, it encourages them to do the same. Additionally, it enhances our networking efforts and helps get our name out there. Overall, it’s crucial to lead by example and show managers that you’re committed to these events as well, rather than just directing them to participate.

And, exciting news! We recently rented a 10×20 space to someone we spoke with at the event! Networking in small communities is key. My manager just called me, and she is excited about the positive outcome!