HOA communication is one of the biggest challenges of any community association. If you ask 20 HOA professionals where the biggest gap in communication exists, 19 of them will tell you that it’s between the Board of Directors and the residents of the community.
How can that be, you might ask, these are neighbors who are working toward the same goals, right? In theory yes, but in reality, there is usually a large chasm between how a Board of Directors is designed to function and what the residents of a community think they do or are supposed to do.
Clear Up Misconceptions
At times, this misconception leads to disappointment and conflicts. Perhaps this is the situation your community finds itself in. But what can be done to restore the balance?
Communication coupled with education is the key! When residents and volunteer Board Members, are aware of the role they play in contributing to a well-run community, conflicts can be resolved and communities are much happier as a whole.
Better HOA Communication
So, how do you go about building a bridge over this chasm of misconception? Try these two suggestions:
- Regular communication from the Board of Directors to the members of the community! This can take many forms: regular issues of a newsletter, your community’s website, regular email blasts, flyers or text messages. The Board should work to find a method of communication that works best for the residents. No matter what methods you end up using, the HOA communication should come regularly and should include information the community needs to fulfill their duties as responsible members of the HOA.
- Community Outreach Programs that offer workshops for residents! Here are some potential topics:
- CC&R’s, what are they?
- What do our CC&R’s state?
- Who is my HOA Board of Directors and what is their role?
A great resource in helping you to establish this program of regular communication and educational opportunities is your management company. By working together to assess the educational needs of your community, you can create an environment where the Board and residents work together for the good of the entire community!
"The HOA industry is unlike any other industry I've been privileged to work in. I really believe that for those who choose to reside in managed communities, the management company chosen can either bringyour HOA together or it can make living in an HOA a huge headache. That's why offering education to both residents and Board Members is a priority for me."
- Building Bridges Through Better Communication - March 1, 2017
Help
Such an insightful article on such a great topic! Great suggestions for possible workshop topics as well!
As Tina stated above, very insightful. Your advice/article would do well if implemented into any Association. Homeowners or Bikers! Great Job!!
Great article! Thanks for sharing Melrose Management! Can you help the Clubside Pointe HOA Board follow some of this advice?