Finding suitable candidates to fill vacancies on your condominium board can be tough. Many potential members fear the responsibility, believing that they will have to deal with resident complaints, manage maintenance requests and address delinquent owner dues. However, when owners see the board as a valuable asset to the health and vitality of their condominium community, they'll be more likely to take a more active role. Consider the following tips as you seek to fill vacant positions on your condo board:
- Keep residents informed: Being on the board gives condo residents an important say in protecting the value of their homes. If residents feel invested in decisions the board makes, they will see the benefit in being close to the decision-making process. Sometimes, this education can be as simple as mailing an informative newsletter that explains the types of decisions a board makes. This allows unit owners better understand the opportunity afforded them through board membership.
- Publicize: Do your residents even know there is a vacant seat on the board? Communicate the need to your entire ownership. This can be as efficient as noting the vacancy in your community newsletter or using email listserv announcements.
- Have significant meetings: Limit your board meetings to an hour and a half each, if possible. Start on time and stick to what's listed on your agenda. If your board members are forced to sit through three-hour meetings focused solely on complaints, they'll be less likely to stick around. Also be sure to pick meeting times that are convenient and do not get in the way of members' lives.
- Be direct: It can be easy to disregard a posted flyer or even a newsletter announcement. It's much more difficult to refuse a personal request for help. If you know of residents who you believe would be a great fit for the board due to their expertise or engagement, bring it up the next time you see them around your community.
Condominium boards usually handle routine community issues, such as bill paying, fielding complaints and understanding and overseeing the community's fiscal position. If residents believe that they have the real opportunity to help make decisions that effect their home and community, they will be more likely to fill a vacant seat on your board. Take these tips into account as you address this important issue at your condo property.