Managing an RV resort can be a rewarding experience, especially when you're doing it with someone you love. It provides an opportunity to work together towards a shared goal, interact with diverse guests, and enjoy the vibrant RV lifestyle. If you and your partner are considering managing a 55+ RV resort with one person in the office and the other handling maintenance and security, this guide will provide the essential steps and tips to successfully navigate this exciting endeavor.

Roles and Responsibilities

Office Management

One of the key roles in managing an RV resort is office management. This involves handling reservations, customer service, marketing, and financial management.

Reservations: The office manager is often the first point of contact for guests. This includes managing bookings, cancellations, and modifications.

Customer Service: Interacting with guests, addressing their queries and concerns, and ensuring they have a pleasant stay at the resort.

Marketing: Promoting the RV resort through various channels, organizing events, and maintaining an active online presence.

Financial Management: Overseeing the resort's finances, including budgeting, billing, and tracking expenditures.

Maintenance and Security

The other crucial role is maintenance and security. This involves maintaining the resort's infrastructure, ensuring cleanliness, and safeguarding the premises.

Maintenance: Regular inspection and repair of resort facilities, including RV sites, utilities, recreational areas, and landscaping.

Cleanliness: Ensuring the resort is clean and hygienic is vital. This includes the regular cleaning of common areas, restrooms, and managing waste disposal.

Security: Keeping the resort safe for guests and staff. This includes regular patrols, managing access control, and responding to any security incidents.

Essential Skills

Both roles require certain skills to ensure the smooth running of the resort.

Communication: Excellent communication skills are essential in both roles. This includes listening to understand guest needs and concerns, and expressing information clearly and professionally.

Problem-solving: Managing an RV resort will inevitably involve dealing with unexpected issues. The ability to think on your feet and solve problems effectively is crucial.

Organization: Both roles require strong organizational skills. This includes managing schedules, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining records.

Technical Skills: For the maintenance role, having a broad range of practical skills can be invaluable. This can include plumbing, electrical work, landscaping, and general repair skills.

Tips for Success

Establish Clear Roles

Having clear roles helps to avoid confusion and ensures that all tasks are covered. Discuss with your partner about who will take on each role, considering your individual skills and preferences.

Communicate Regularly

Regular communication is essential to keep each other updated on any issues or developments at the resort. This can involve daily briefings or maintaining a shared log of activities and issues.

Engage with the Community

The guests at your resort are more than just customers; they are a vibrant community. Engage with your guests, participate in social events, and create a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Continuous Learning

Always be open to learning and improving. This can involve attending relevant training courses, networking with other resort managers, and keeping up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

Practice Patience

Managing an RV resort can be challenging at times. It's essential to remain patient, both with each other and with your guests. Remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth and learning.

Conclusion

Managing a 55+ RV resort as a couple can be a fulfilling experience, offering the chance to work closely together while providing a valuable service to your guests. By understanding your roles, developing the necessary skills, and following these tips, you and your partner can thrive in this exciting venture.