How did you first hear about Summer, and what attracted you to the concept?
I first heard about Summer through a past work colleague, and was immediately intrigued by Summer’s approach to non-primary-home ownership. It was even more exciting to have the opportunity to be part of the founding team that would directly affect our members' ongoing experience with their homes, as well as building a genuine, top-notch brand. The most compelling thing, though, has undoubtedly been the team; working with other like-minded people who really care not only makes a big difference in the work environment, but also absolutely translates to the overall experience of our customers and members.
"Organization and good communication are key for our team, so that no detail slips through the cracks. Detail matters!"
As Summer’s Operations Experience Manager, what does a typical day look like?
Each and every day is different! At this moment in time, we are simultaneously building out foundational items for the long-term, setting up new homes operationally, and taking care of customer experience items for both our current and upcoming guests. Organization and good communication are key for our team, so that no detail slips through the cracks. Detail matters!
What home within the Summer network has been the most fun to work on and get live thus far?
For me, the most challenging and most rewarding property thus far has been our Park City property. Due to some unforeseen issues, it took a big push on the ground for us to get this property live. It was really satisfying to see the results once complete, and even more, to hear the influx of positive feedback from our guests post-launch and how special and memorable their stays were. We put a lot of hours into this property, but we also found a little time to enjoy downtown Park City. I must say, it was my first time in Park City, but I already look forward to bringing my family back to experience it as well!
"From custom communications and prompt responses, to making sure that all the details in the home are ready for every stay, we make it clear to each and every guest that we really do care."
What’s the most challenging part of the job? And the most rewarding?
Things don’t always go as planned, and you cannot always plan for the unknown. We deal with homes, and as any homeowner knows, things break, the weather is unpredictable, contractors and vendors can come and go, and so much more. But I enjoy these challenges, and it is great to work with a team made up of folks that are always willing to roll up their sleeves to make sure things are done right and seen through from start to finish and beyond. For me, the most rewarding part of this is twofold. With any challenge, it is satisfying to work together to find the solution. I enjoy the process. What makes this even more rewarding is that with Summer, we are making dreams come true for families and individuals with whom we have formed relationships based on trust and transparency. At the end of the day, I go back to our members and can give them updates on their home, its performance, and future goals.
"With Summer, we are making dreams come true for families and individuals with whom we have formed relationships based on trust and transparency."
Working with short-term rental guests is vastly different than interactions you may have with, let's say, hotel guests. It's more intimate and personalized, and it shows! How do you make your guest feel welcome? How do we communicate that we genuinely care about their experience? From custom communications and prompt responses, to making sure that all the details in the home are ready for every stay, we make it clear to each and every guest that we really do care. Our efforts have been perpetually validated by our guests' reviews and feedback thus far, and it's been so rewarding. It's not about things going perfectly at every turn, but about the communication and willingness to find a solution, that goes a long way.
What do you see for Summer’s future?
Summer's sustained growth will be inevitable by way of caring for our members, their homes, and our guests.
Have more questions for Jason or the team? Drop us a line anytime at hey@gosummer.com.
