6 steps for addressing communication issues in a condominium community
Are you getting tired of the constant animosity, misunderstanding and general lack of involvement in your condominium community? All these can be attributed to ineffective communication.
Check out these 6 steps for handling communication issues before they get out of hand:
- Be honest and transparent. If your condominium owners think you’re withholding information from them, it might put a dent in their trust. Make sure your owners feel involved, tell them how their money is being spent, inform them of your meeting schedules, keep them in the loop.
- Be courteous. Be polite at all times. Your manner of communication will set the tone of your entire condominium association – don’t allow your frustrations show.
- Be unambiguous and clear. Keep your communications simple and easy to digest. If you want owners to act a certain way, make sure your message is straightforward enough for them to understand at a glance.
- Be proactive. Don’t wait for condominium owners to bring up issues before addressing them – communicate with them frequently.
- Encourage feedback. Make sure your communication lines are open. And make sure there’s an easy way for owners to share their feedback. You might decide to appoint one person as your board’s point of contact.
- Be consistent. Be consistent with your choice of communication channel - whether it’s an email or newsletter, a bulletin or website, just remain consistent. This will make it easier for homeowners to find information whenever they need it.
If you’re really serious about improving your condominium board’s communication, you might want to hire a property manager.