The board of directors in an HOA can face many challenges. From organizing meetings, to managing budgets, it’s safe to say their hands are full. But what happens when the board of directors wants input from its HOA members?
While some homeowners may have no problem voicing their concerns, it can be difficult for the board to get collective input from all members of the association.
Although every member agreed to living within an HOA community, not all homeowners understand all the benefits and limitations of an association.
Some believe homeowners associations are too restrictive, while others may protest tighter regulations.
When associations seek input from homeowners, they want to do so in a constructive manner. This allows the board to understand what issues need to be addressed, and where the association can improve.
Busy schedules and hesitation to provide input leaves associations at a loss as far as how community members are feeling.
HOA board members should fully encourage community members to express their concerns and voice their opinions. The board of directors should not only strive to gain input from community members, they should also encourage community participation by association members.
As a result, the community can flourish, making it a better place to live for everyone.
Let’s take a look at how HOA board members can encourage more community member participation and obtain input from members.
EASY ACCESS TO AVAILABLE INFORMATION
Community members want to feel involved, a part of the community. The board of directors can make steps to provide easy access to information. In doing this, board members can share meeting minutes and other important community information with association members.
Allowing members to access information online is one of the best ways to create a sense of community; members will feel involved and “in the know” when it comes to matters of the community.
Sharing information doesn’t have to be solely electronic. Mailing information or posting it to community message boards can also make information easily accessible to association members.
COLLECT INPUT & OTHER MEMBER FEEDBACK
Another way to have association members participate is through surveys. Using surveys is an effective way to collect input and other member feedback for those who are unable to attend meetings, or just to collect information in general.
While some members may not have anything to complain about, distributing community surveys, either online or in person, allows members the opportunity to provide feedback should they have any. Surveys are another way to create a feeling of community and tell members: Your Voice Matters.
In addition to surveys, supplying a “suggestion box,” either a physical one or an electronic version can allow homeowners to submit their feedback when on their own time.
Once the box is in place, board members should encourage member participation as well as reminding members they have a safe place to voice their opinions.
Another way to collect member feedback is the introduction of online discussion boards or forums that allow members to communicate amongst themselves. This allows association members a bit of autonomy when it comes to their feedback.
A quick note: a member of the board should be assigned as a moderator to ensure appropriate discussions are taking place.
In addition to monitoring discussion board activities, the board member should also take notes on what is being discussed, improvements that need to be made, as well as what members would like to see more of.
This can bring an open dialogue between community members without feeling obligated to participate.
MOTIVATE COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Committee participation is an excellent way to promote community involvement. Members of committees can create effective change within the community without the commitment of being a board member.
Having members participate in committees is one thing, motivating them to join is another. Board members should actively encourage community involvement by homeowners; the results may surprise you.
MINIMIZE TIME COMMITMENTS
Poorly run meetings can be irritating for everyone involved, which is why it’s important to keep meetings organized and to the point. Because many homeowners have busy schedules, their time is valuable; it’s more likely that they will attend meetings when they know they won’t be there long.
PROPERLY THANK COMMUNITY MEMBERS
HOAs wouldn’t be the same without its volunteers, so give thanks! Believe it not, gratitude goes a long way. When members who volunteer feel appreciated it creates a domino effect of good feelings.
Showing appreciation at meetings or holding volunteer functions are great ways to show appreciation and to inspire others.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Communities bring people together, and community events are an integral part of that. Living in an HOA, homeowners feel a sense of community. By holding community events, members are able to enjoy the community with one another.
Community events can be over the top or can be as simple as a pancake breakfast. These events allow community members to get to know each other. They also emphasize that every member is a part of the community.
The more homeowners feel like they are part of something, the more likely they are to participate in regular feedback.
OFFER INCENTIVES
A simple, yet often overlooked way to encourage association member participation is through incentives. HOAs can offer incentives such as community service hours for schools and other organizations that may require them.
Incentives can also be raffles, awards, and even training or educational opportunities. Overall, incentives can increase overall engagement of community members.
The power of HOA participation. Communities thrive when members feel engaged and connected to other members of the association. Working together and providing input is the best way for a community to thrive; group efforts can help to maintain and even increase property values too!
Board members should continuously encourage members to participate in board meetings, community service projects, as well as community events.
Promoting a sense of belonging can truly make a difference in the community overall. Hopefully the strategies outlined above can help make improvements in obtaining member input and encouraging community participation from association members.