Roof Monitor is using technology to help businesses save money and keep their buildings safer. Roof Monitor helps manage safety risks and minimize business disruptions by communicating to building owners and other appropriate contacts when action is needed – before damage occurs. As Director of Operations, Karisha Schattenberg has been with the company since the beginning and helps to guide the company through rapid growth. In this latest “Small Business Spotlight” interview, she shares the importance of creating a product you truly believe in and the power of a supportive management team.

1. What made you decide to start/make the jump to your company today?

There are multiple reasons I came to work for Roof Monitor. First, the Roof Monitor System is an innovative new technology that has the ability to alter the future for business owners and help prevent loss of life. I have the privilege of being a part of this from the ground up and help pave the course for the company’s future. Second, I worked for Brad Beldon at Beldon Roofing in the past.  Brad is the most honest and respectful employer I have ever worked for.  He truly cares about his employees and makes it a fun and rewarding place to work. When the opportunity arose to come work with the Beldon organization again I jumped at the chance since this always felt like home.

2. How do you balance the multiple hats that you are required to wear?

With any new business the term “multiple hats” is an understatement.  Everyone has to pull together as a cohesive team to achieve the goals for the success of the company. Brad leads by example and exudes the energy and work ethic required to get the job done.  All the employees want to work here because we believe in Brad and the product, so we are enthusiastic and motivated to help. We don’t look at wearing multiple hats as a negative, because we are constantly reaching and exceeding our goals.

3. What are the top three company priorities that you focus on?

First, constantly improving the Roof Monitor System so we can provide a superior quality product to our customers. We refuse to cut corners with any component of the system.  After all, the system will only be as successful as the reputation and functionality of the product itself.

Second, having the most professional and talented contractors all around the nation to provide the best customer service and installation skills, starting from the point of contact through the life of the system. That’s why we partnered with the NRP (National Roofing Partners).

Third, marketing is a key to driving the success of any product. If no one knows about your product it’s less likely to be successful. We have gone above and beyond to create a recognizable brand and to generate the buzz needed to give Roof Monitor the extra thrust since it is a brand new technology never before seen on the market. We want to foster awareness of the safety concerns and hindrances facing business owners and show them that we have a solution which could save them thousands and even millions of dollars in inventory loss, building damage, unnecessary expensive snow removals, potential lawsuits, and loss of business due to business closures.

4. Walk us through the characteristics that you look for when hiring top talent.

It really depends on the job function. That drives the personality and job skills I am looking for. What’s important to me is finding the strengths in each person that will fit together with the rest of your team to fill the gaps so you create one cohesive team is.  Honesty, loyalty, intelligence, work ethic, and reliability are traits I look for as I believe these set someone apart from the rest of the field.

5. What are the keys to your company’s growth?

Ultimately I believe it’s the product that creates business success and growth. The Roof Monitor System is so unique in its aptitudes and technology that business owners can’t turn it down. We have been able to create a product that provides a business owner a return on their investment, making it an easy decision to invest in the Roof Monitor Smart Roof Protection System.

6. What is the one piece of advice that you want to share with executives of other small businesses?

My advice would be to listen to others opinions and be flexible with your thoughts, processes, procedures, and techniques. If your business trends change or decline, take notice of any modifications or lack thereof within your company and in the field to determine the trigger or origin. The most successful businesses are constantly making changes and sacrifices to keep up with the demands and environmental factors.