Effective Board Leadership: A Strategic Approach

Start with the Big Picture

Prioritize goal setting with tangible outcomes. Establishing result-oriented goals should be the initial focus for all board members. These goals should stem from a thorough evaluation of the association's current needs and its future aspirations.

Example: Beautifying the Community

Task 1: Implement yard and driveway cleanup initiatives.

Task 2: Renovate landscaping in common areas.

Task 3: Replace outdated street lights.

Task 4: Upgrade the exterior of the clubhouse.

Build Steps Toward Progress

Develop a strategic plan to achieve your goals. This means creating a clear action plan that guides members towards their desired outcome. Consider the specific steps needed, allocate resources wisely, and set milestones to track progress. By having a well-defined strategy, the board can stay focused and move efficiently towards its vision.

Example: Expanding Beautification Efforts:

Task 1: Enforce or establish effective rules for homeowner cleanup.

Task 2: Research and prioritize landscaping changes for maximum impact.

Task 3: Explore innovative lighting technology for energy efficiency.

Task 4: Identify materials conducive to clubhouse enhancement.

Delegate Responsibilities

Clearly communicate expectations and delegate tasks accordingly. It's crucial to make sure everyone involved knows and understands their responsibilities. Use resources like property managers to handle bigger tasks relating to the operations of your community, lawyers to navigate legal issues, and field experts for tasks requiring specialized knowledge. By effectively communicating and delegating, you can manage your home more efficiently and achieve your goals with the proper support.

Monitor Progress

Regularly assess progress towards goal attainment, as monitoring progress allows for timely adjustments and ensures alignment with the board's overarching objectives. By having a well-defined strategy and continually evaluating progress, the association can stay focused and efficiently move towards its vision.

The Manager Oversees Day-to-Day Operations

Recognize the distinction between governance and management roles. While the board sets the strategic direction, the community manager or management company oversees the daily operations. Focus on governing rather than taking on more than you can handle, allowing designated professionals to help and manage operational tasks.

Foster Mutual Respect

Appreciate the differing time commitments and expertise of fellow board members. Cultivate an environment of mutual respect and appreciation for each member's contributions and skills they bring to the board.

Exercise Collective Authority

Make decisions as a unified group. While discussions may be intense and varied, once a decision is made, the board supports it together and moves forward in agreement. This collective approach ensures consistency and strength in implementing actions, reinforcing the board's commitment to its shared goals and responsibilities.

Embrace Accountability

Acknowledge that not all decisions will be universally popular. Prioritize the collective welfare of the association over individual preferences, recognizing that tough decisions are sometimes necessary for progress.

Boards can achieve significant goals while effectively managing day-to-day operations. By delegating responsibilities, maintaining focus on strategic objectives, and fostering a culture of respect and accountability, boards can navigate challenges and accomplish their vision for the community.

Dive In & Thrive: Optimizing Your Community Pool

As the sunny days of summer beckon, it's crucial to recognize that the upkeep of a community pool demands year-round attention. Not only does a pool enhance property values, but it also serves as a cherished sanctuary for families and individuals alike. From providing a space for children to frolic in the sun to offering adults a venue for exercise and socialization, the community pool stands as a unifying element within the neighborhood.

Building a Lasting Relationship with your Vendor

Ensuring the seamless operation of a community pool is a joint responsibility shared by the HOA and the management company. Establishing a robust partnership with the pool vendor is paramount. This proactive approach allows for preemptive problem-solving and prevents last-minute decisions that could compromise safety and functionality. Early engagement in maintenance tasks is essential to sidestep any potential issues before the summer rush.

Transparent Communication

Transparent communication with the pool company is key to streamlining operations. Initiate the vendor selection process well in advance to thoroughly assess potential partners. Utilize community communication channels to keep residents informed about pool closures and updates. Clear contracts outlining responsibilities, expectations, and financial arrangements are vital for effective management. When everyone is informed and aligned, the pool season flows smoothly.

Create a Strong Pool Policy

Going hand in hand with ensuring smooth operations, the safety of the residents is of the utmost importance. Which is why we urge community members to create a strong pool policy. Here are some ideas as to what should be included:

• Proper Swim attire must be worn.

• No alcohol

• No glass

• No smoking or vaping

• Keep electrical devices away from pool

• No swimming during certain weather conditions

• Guest policy: Needs to be specific

• Age policy: What age can a teen swim or enter the area without an adult/guardian?

• Entrance Requirements: Must have working pool card or proper ID to reflect homeowners address.

• Cleaning Up

• Hours of Operations

Collaborate with legal professionals and your management company to draft comprehensive policies that prioritize resident safety while fostering an enjoyable pool experience for all.

In conclusion, proactive preparation and transparent communication are the cornerstones of a successful community pool season. By building strong partnerships with vendors, establishing clear policies, and fostering transparent communication channels, HOAs and management companies can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable summer for all residents. Let's dive into summer with confidence and make a splash in our community pool!

How to run remote HOA Board Meetings: Read our 5 pro tips!

5 tips to running effective remote Board Meetings. Many events and meetings have been cancelled or postponed to adhere to local social distancing requirements. As a board member, navigating these times is not an easy task, but it is not unmanageable. 

1. It is important to do your research in order to find a great platform. There are several free options you can use online. Consider the dynamic of your group and try out different options to find the right fit for everyone. Whether your board chooses Skype, Google Hangouts, Zoom (This is what our teams are using), Microsoft Teams, Miro, or even just a telephonic conference call, association business can be discussed from the comfort and safety of your home! 

2. Communication is key. Keeping everyone in the loop provides a sense of comfort and encourages them to engage more. You should continue sending meeting reminders and share meeting minutes via email and/or on the association portal. Invite them to learn the electronic meeting platforms with you and listen to their input. Many of your homeowners may use these platforms for their working from home shift. Some of our Community Managers are even having "practice" runs before the meeting to ensure you feel comfortable on game day.  

3. Maintain a routine sense of normalcy. It may feel a little overwhelming having to switch gears so abruptly in how your board conduct meetings. Thus, it is important to instigate routine and carry over regular habits. Create and share an agenda, determine objectives, establish a meeting schedule and time limits, and try to discuss business as usual. The platform for the meeting has changed, but the meeting content doesn't have to.

4. Use this time to strengthen connections and build on skills. Make time before the meeting to have personal discussion. How is everyone doing? What helpful resources has everyone read recently? Connect with one another and nurture collaboration between members now more than ever. 

5. Utilize your partners. Your Community Manager and legal counsel are always here to help, especially in times such as this. They can provide assistance and resources to alleviate the challenges that accompany the transition to meeting remotely. 

Remote meetings can seem strange at first, especially if your board is used to in-person meetings, but practice makes perfect! You'll be pros in no time.