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“Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered” is our podcast dedicated to facilitating connections and illuminating solutions to common problems within the parking and mobility industry.
We aim to do so by highlighting the voices of experts in the space, discussing trends and forward-looking technological innovations, and providing professional food for thought. All in an effort to help one another get better at what we know is harder than it looks…parking a car.
In this special series, we’re excited to feature some of our very own Parker People, by sharing their stories from previous episodes on our podcast.
In this blog post, we dive into the world of frontline management with Lynda Black, Senior Operations Manager at our Indianapolis Call Center.
Tackling Talent Challenges in the Parking Industry
Lynda Black, like many of our Parker People, faces daily challenges that require creativity, determination and a deep commitment to her team. As the Indianapolis-based Senior Operations Manager, Lynda is at the forefront of one of the most pressing issues in the industry today: finding and retaining quality frontline staff.
Lynda’s journey in managing a call center is a testament to the challenges and rewards that come with the role. She has developed effective strategies to overcome hurdles in staffing, ensuring that her team remains motivated, engaged and committed to delivering exceptional service.
The Battle for Reliable Talent
Finding the right people for frontline positions is a daunting task in today’s job market. Lynda’s approach is rooted in transparency and setting clear expectations from the outset. During the interview process, she emphasizes the importance of attendance, which is crucial for maintaining the high level of service that Parker Technology prides itself on.
Lynda doesn’t shy away from tough decisions. If a candidate tries to reschedule an interview, she often advises them not to show up at all. While this approach might seem harsh, it has proven effective in filtering out those who may become unreliable in the future. Additionally, her team keeps detailed records of past candidates, allowing them to make informed decisions when considering applicants who reapply.
Keeping the Team Motivated and Engaged
Lynda knows that finding the right people is just the first step. Keeping them motivated and engaged is equally important. She understands that a happy, well-supported team is the key to success.
At Parker, we believe in equipping our team members with the tools they need to excel. Lynda ensures her team receives ongoing training, personalized feedback and opportunities for growth. But she also knows that work should be enjoyable. From small gestures like providing treats to acknowledging achievements, she fosters a positive and supportive work environment.
Leading by Example
Lynda’s leadership philosophy is simple yet powerful: be available and lead by example. She makes it a point to be accessible to her team, offering guidance and support whenever needed. By working alongside her team during busy times, she shows that no task is beneath her, reinforcing a culture of respect and camaraderie.
This hands-on approach not only boosts team morale but also strengthens the bond between team members and management. Her dedication to her team reflects the values that Parker Technology holds dear—values that are essential in overcoming the challenges that come with the job.
Celebrating Parker People
Lynda’s story is just one of many that highlight the dedication, resilience and hard work of our Parker People. At Parker Technology, we know that managing parking is harder than it looks, and it’s our people who make it all possible.
As we continue to share these stories, we hope to shed light on the incredible work happening behind the scenes. Our Parker People are the heart of our success, and we’re proud to celebrate them.
Stay tuned for more stories of our incredible Parker People and the hard things they do, both in and out of the office. Go back and watch Lynda’s episode here, and listen to more stories on our podcast.
Katelyn Perman
Content Marketing Manager
Katelyn Perman has 3+ years of experience in marketing, specializing in social media strategy, email campaigns, graphic design and copywriting. She holds a B.S. in Strategic Communication and Human Communication Studies from Indiana Wesleyan University.