Planned Development Services

Finding the time to volunteer for anything these days is challenging with our busy schedules. Additionally, finding people willing to volunteer is sometimes even more challenging, especially when it comes to the HOA board. For community associations, member involvement is crucial to providing responsible and successful management of the HOA. We’ve provided some tips on how to recruit potential HOA board members in a positive and encouraging way:

Educate & Advocate

To recruit new members, the board should consider sharing success stories and highlighting accomplishments. In today’s complex and busy world, most residents in the community are working hard to make ends meet and to balance family obligations day in, and day out. “Out-of-site, out-of-mind” is very common regarding the HOA board activities. The HOA board could advocate the need for community involvement, by sharing the successes and outcomes of initatives. Social Media, newsletters, and community email blasts are great ways to call attention to the importance of HOA boards and the need for strong, contributing board members. Download our presentations “3 Powerful HOA Leadership Lessons” as a tool to help educate your board. Be sure to visit our Social Media in the HOA blog series on how to carefully use social media if you are an active board member. Understand the difference between social platforms and how to properly use them in a productive way for the HOA board.

Short-Term Board Appointments

Short-term appointments are a good way for a potential HOA board member to test out the waters. When a board member steps down due to a move or other extenuating circumstance, most HOA boards can appoint a replacement to complete the term (check your CC&R’s and bylaws to be sure this is allowed). Approach a homeowner that would make a great addition to the board. The invitation to serve and yet not commit to a long-term could benefit the board and the homeowner in assuring both is a great fit. If all goes well, the short term appointment may result in a new, long-term HOA board member.

Recruit Members With Relevant Skills & Experience

What is the boards current, most crucial need? Identify the needs in respect to issues such as, for example, finance or community relations. Seek out community members who may have knowledge and experience in those fields. Try a one-on-one approach by inviting them to coffee. Never utilize an ambush approach like stopping them in their driveway, or knocking on the door unexpectedly. Send an email or facebook message in a relaxed manner, simply asking questions about the related topic and if he/she would be willing to share some knowledge with you. If you can get some one-on-one time, then share what you have enjoyed during your term and describe how their expertise could be helpful to the betterment of the HOA. Be enthusiastic, without being aggressive.

Encourage The Disgruntled to Serve

Yes, you read that correctly. An complainer may be your best source for an active board member. If a community member frequently complains about board decisions or community issues, they may have the passion needed to be an effective board member. If they know enough to complain, then they are paying attention to the board’s actions and decisions. What are they complaining about? If these issues are legitimate and well considered, this demonstrates a level of care and concern about the community. Incessant whining about petty issues, such as trash day being Monday and not Friday, is an good indicator that he/she may cause more stress to a board, than productive assistance.