Division Vice President Joanie Bachonski’s journey with Extra Space Storage began 13 years ago as a Store Manager in the Central New Jersey market, where her leadership and dedication quickly led to a promotion within just four months. Over the years, she advanced through various roles, including District Team Lead, Division Learning Manager, and Senior District Manager, showing her versatility and commitment to the company’s success. In this Q&A, Joanie shares insights from her career, reflecting on how the people at Extra Space bring energy to her daily work and how the company’s supportive environment has been instrumental in her professional development.
What do you like most about your current position?
The People! Everyone from our Assistant Store Managers to our CEO is crucial in making Extra Space Storage a great workplace. My daily interactions with my team members energize and motivate me to offer support, guidance, and direction.
What is the best advice you’ve received in your career?
Be yourself—everyone else is taken. It is common to want to mimic your mentors. They are in the position they are because of their amazing skillset, but the goal is to focus on learning the competencies needed to be successful in that role. This advice was given to me when I was promoted to my first corporate position. I was in my twenties and struggling to be my authentic self. This mentor allowed me to be myself while helping me navigate my new role.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your career?
Saying no. Over my career and personal life, I’ve struggled to be everything to everyone. I’ve learned that it’s more important to have clear boundaries. Saying no doesn’t mean that you are not a team player, it’s to know your limitations and prioritize what is needed. This enables you to delegate tasks to help others learn and grow.
How do you balance work and personal life?
First, I’m a planner! Over the years, I’ve learned to balance what is important and stay true to my commitments. Make sure your calendar is up to date, stick to it as much as possible, and be flexible. Second, my support system at home and work is and has always been the most important reason I’m able to balance my responsibilities. Don’t forget to take some personal time for just you. You need to be able to recharge your batteries.
How has Extra Space helped in your professional development?
I started at Extra Space at 29 years old and feel like I grew up in this organization. Extra Space does an amazing job of providing resources, guidance, and feedback to help you grow your career. I’m so grateful for mentors like Lyn Wright, Karen Pierce, Dayna Hathaway, Mike James, Bob Parisi, and so many more who have put their own time, energy, and effort into my development.
What is a memorable moment or achievement in your career?
When I look back on my career, it is not about my personal achievements but the individuals who have been promoted to District Manager and other roles that I had the honor of either mentoring or spending time with.
How do you approach challenges and problem-solving in your role?
I think of situations like a scientist—observe, make a hypothesis, test it, analyze results, and question the results. At times, I feel we are too quick to judge, and we need to be more curious in situations. I love to ask questions to seek understanding and truly believe challenges have multiple ways to solve them. We just need to think it through.
What advice would you give to future leaders?
Everyone’s journey is different. Be patient, seek feedback, adjust based on that feedback, and ensure you are self-aware.
This article is part of an ongoing series of interviews with Extra Space Storage (NYSE: EXR) leaders. Interested in a career with Extra Space? Visit our careers page to learn more about our culture and job openings.
