I recently interviewed for a District Manager position with Public Storage and had a structured and thorough experience. Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Initial Screening
The process started with a 45 minute phone interview conducted by a recruiter. This conversation focused on my professional background, my interest in Public Storage, and how my previous experience aligned with the District Manager role. The recruiter also provided a high-level overview of the position’s responsibilities, including multi-site management, driving sales, and team leadership.
2. Regional Vice President Interview
Next, I was interviewed by the Regional Vice President, which lasted two hours. The interview included behavioral and situational questions, focusing on:
-How I manage underperforming employees and locations.
-My approach to analyzing operational metrics like occupancy rates and revenue targets.
-My experience motivating teams and driving results across multiple locations.
-I was asked to provide specific examples of my accomplishments in operations management and share how I’ve handled challenges in previous roles.
3. Online Assessment and References
After the interview with the Sr. Regional DM, I completed a DISC assessment, which evaluated my leadership style, decision-making process, and compatibility with the role. The assessment was referenced in the last two interview steps with senior leadership. I was also asked to submit five references, at least two of which had to be former direct supervisors/managers.
4. Three-Hour Ride-Along
A unique part of the interview process was a three-hour ride-along with a current District Manager. This provided an in-depth look at the day-to-day responsibilities of the role. During this experience, I observed how operations are managed, and gained insight into the challenges and opportunities of the position. It was an excellent way to understand the company’s expectations and workplace culture firsthand.
5. Interview with the Vice President of Operations (West Coast)
As the penultimate step, I had an interview with the VP of Operations for the West Coast. This conversation focused on high-level strategic questions and how my skills and leadership philosophy aligned with Public Storage’s broader goals. The VP emphasized their vision for the region and expectations for the District Manager role, particularly KPIs, operational excellence, and cultural fit. This interview was an important opportunity to demonstrate my ability to think strategically and contribute to the company’s long-term success.
6. Final Interview: Culture and Values Fit
The final interview was with a senior leader and centered around Public Storage’s culture and values. This discussion helped assess my alignment with the company’s priorities, such as teamwork, innovation, and customer service excellence. It was less technical and more focused on how I would fit within the organization’s culture.
Overall Impression
The process was professional and well-organized, with clear communication at every stage. I appreciated the emphasis on ensuring candidates align not only with the job requirements but also with the company's culture. The interviews were thorough but fair, and I left the process with a better understanding of Public Storage’s expectations for their District Managers.
If you're preparing for this role, I recommend focusing on your leadership experience and ability to manage multiple locations effectively.