Keeping your board interested: Top 4 ways to increase engagement

This blog post explores effective strategies to increase engagement among condo owners and not-for-profit supporters.

Shared challenges, shared solutions.

Engagement issues persist across both condo boards and not-for-profit organizations. Owner indifference is a common hurdle within condo settings, hindering participation and governance. Many owners only show concern during fee increases or problems but remain disengaged otherwise, making it difficult for boards to meet quorum or recruit new members. Similarly, not-for-profits struggle to fill board positions, especially in smaller, local entities. The misconception that governance is burdensome and board meetings are tedious often deters potential members despite the impactful missions these organizations pursue.

Unlock the potential of your board

Here are four tips that, when implemented, can foster interest and motivate potential directors to take a more active role. These tips have been proven to increase engagement and overcome the common challenges condo boards and not-for-profit organizations face.

Tip 1: Communication

Maintaining transparency is crucial for condo associations. Open and accessible communication and thorough record-keeping can significantly boost owner engagement by showing them the benefits and responsibilities of getting involved. Not-for-profits should focus on raising awareness of their work through updated, professional websites and active social media presence, showcasing their activities and impacts, which can attract more volunteers and supporters.

Tip 2: Participation

Encouraging participation can start with simple steps. Condo boards might struggle to attract enough attendees to meet quorum; introducing engaging speakers or presentations at meetings can increase attendance. Not-for-profits can similarly enhance participation by organizing enjoyable events like holiday parties or BBQs, which also serve as platforms for community engagement and new member recruitment.

Tip 3: Contribution

Offering various involvement options caters to different levels of availability and interest. Condo owners might engage through committees focused on specific interests like newsletters, gardening, or holiday decorations. These roles can serve as stepping stones to more involved positions such as board officers, who assist in decision-making without full board responsibilities. Not-for-profits can engage volunteers by assigning them to committees or special projects that align with their interests, helping them ease into potentially more significant roles over time.

Tip 4: Significance

Recognizing and valuing individual contributions can deepen engagement. Providing unique learning opportunities for the organization’s mission can reinvigorate interest and commitment. For instance, not-for-profits might offer workshops or webinars that align with their goals. At the same time, condo associations could send members to relevant conferences, positioning them as community leaders and experts.

In conclusion

Building a strong board and fostering community within condos and not-for-profit settings are vital but challenging endeavours. Organizations can gradually overcome apathy and build a committed, effective board by focusing on communication, participation, contribution, and recognizing significance. These efforts won’t yield immediate results, but persistent application of these strategies will foster stronger engagement and a more dynamic board environment.