YSN Member of the Year 2024 Interview
The Young Storage Network (YSN) hosted its first Annual Awards Dinner on June 27 at the Jam House in Birmingham.
Thank you to the sponsors Kuboid, BOXTOR, Stora, and Janus International Europe Ltd—for making this event possible.
This occasion marked Anthony Adams’s last event as chair of the YSN Board. We are deeply grateful for his dedication to supporting and growing the YSN. We will miss you, Ant!
We received so many fantastic applications for the YSN Member of the Year Award, and we would like to thank all the applicants.
Congratulations to Alysia Copland, our well-deserved award winner! We truly appreciate your dedication and support within the YSN.
Alysia Copland joined Storebox in 2021 and has progressed to a full-time position as their Social Media and Customer Service Assistant. Alysia is a trustworthy and reliable team member whose flexible approach allows her to adapt to the company’s needs easily. Her team describes her as “the life of the office.” Alysia consistently goes above and beyond in her role, and she took the initiative to revive the company’s deserted social media platforms, achieving significant growth. Additionally, she organised sponsorship for a local charity football event.
Recently, we caught up with Alysia after her award win to ask a few questions about her journey in the self storage industry:
When did you join Storebox?
I joined Storebox in June 2021.
What made you want to join the self storage industry?
Before entering the self storage industry, I had a sales-based background. I was seeking a more flexible industry that offered career progression. Storebox, being a local company with a smaller team, provided an opportunity for varied roles. The flexibility was also a significant advantage for family life.
What is your favourite thing about working in self storage?
Definitely the people. The industry is full of opportunities to make new connections. Unlike my previous roles, colleagues in the self storage industry are always willing to help and share knowledge rather than treating you as a competitor.
How has the YSN helped your career?
Being part of the YSN has greatly expanded my industry knowledge. I’ve explored areas I never anticipated, such as dynamic pricing, door control systems, and managing abandoned units. The sessions and events hosted by the network have been invaluable, even in areas outside my daily responsibilities
What advice would you give to someone new to the industry, looking to build their career?
Be open-minded and explore different paths within the industry. This will help you discover where you fit best. Don’t be afraid to try something new. Learning new skills, such as social media management at Storebox, has significantly advanced my career.
In your experience, what is a common mistake people make when it comes to running a self storage site, and how can this be avoided?
A common mistake is heavily discounting when opening a new store or being inconsistent with promotions. This can lead to significant price increases for customers when trying to return them to the standard rate. It is important to maintain a consistent pricing strategy.
Is there anything new coming up in your work or the company which you are excited about?
Storebox is currently expanding with the addition of two new Directors. One of our new Directors, Gary, is focusing on aligning staff with their best-suited roles. This may provide an opportunity for me to find a more streamlined position. Exciting developments are planned for later in 2024, so stay tuned!
Which skills are you most interested in developing over the next 12 months?
I am open to trying anything, but I am particularly interested in Operations. This field covers a wide variety of areas, ensuring that no two days are the same. I am eager to strengthen my skills in this area and explore new opportunities.
You recently won the YSN Member of the Year Award 2024. What would you say to other YSN members thinking about entering next year?
Go for it! You have to be in it to win it. Be confident in your abilities and the value you bring to your company. You don’t need to be in a management or leadership role to enter. Remember your worth within your role. My job is not just customer service; I handle multiple responsibilities. Don’t undersell yourself based on your job title.
Do you have any hobbies outside of work?
The most important thing for me is spending time with my daughter. I also enjoy going to the gym and taking weekend trips. Recently, I have visited Cyprus, Milan, and Lake Como.
Do you have an idea of where you might travel with your winner's Airbnb voucher?
I’m planning to venture to Paris with my partner to celebrate our anniversary in September.