10 Conflict Resolution Strategies for HOA Board Members
Serving on a HOA board of directors can be challenging at times. Resolving conflicts, big and small, can be a part of the board member’s responsibilities.
- When emotions run high, the parties should separate and take time to cool off.
- Attack the problem, not the person. Move beyond personalities.
- It is acceptable to express views vigorously, but not harshly. Express views without judging the other person.
- Focus on the problem, don’t chase rabbits.
- All parties need to respect the opinions of others and work to develop middle ground.
- An effective tactic is to begin discussions with areas of mutual agreement and work backwards into the area of disagreement.
- Parties must listen to one another without interrupting.
- Let the past be the past and avoid bringing up past issues. Keep the discussions in the present.
- Never approach the problem as a competition, with a winner and a loser. A win-win resolution is more tenable over time.
- It goes without saying, be as polite as possible and demand the same from the other party.
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