No “I” in Team
Let’s say you feel strongly about a particular item, whether it’s keeping assessments at the same level, using one contractor over the other, or how to decorate the lobby. Ask yourself if the reason you feel so strongly is because it will directly benefit you, or the community as a whole. No one likes to raise assessments, but neglecting to raise them because you want to spend the money on Blackhawks season tickets instead of investing in your association’s future can have a negative impact. We’ve all heard horror stories about associations having insufficient money in their reserves to fund necessary projects or having to borrow from reserves to pay for unexpected repairs or operating expense increases. It can be much more affordable to pay assessments that increase slightly every year or so, than to scramble to find a few thousand dollars for a special assessment. Or maybe you want to see the lobby covered in neon colors and loud prints because you really enjoyed the interior decorating designs from the 1980s; however, the rest of the association prefers more neutral colors to be more welcoming, easier on the eyes and to attract potential buyers. When you identify yourself trying to steer the vote towards your own personal agenda (“hogging the puck” in hockey), take a step back and listen to what is better for the community as a whole.
Recognize the MVPs
Every association, like every team in a hockey game, has an MVP. The Most Valuable Player has performed above and beyond in the game, whether it’s scoring a hat-trick, killing a power play, or having a shut-out. The MVP in an association could be an individual who cleans up litter around the property, puts out a community newsletter, spreads salt on sidewalks and stairs when the snow removal company has not been out, or works on the association website. Keep an eye out for these MVPs and publicly acknowledge their hard work and giving of their free time to improve the association. Sometimes a little recognition can go a long way in encouraging the MVPs to continue their hard work, and can inspire others to make amazing plays of their own. Unfortunately, it has also been true that when an individual continuously sacrifices their free time to better the association and they feel that no one notices or appreciates their hard work, they may stop doing it altogether and may refrain from volunteering for tasks in the future. Don’t have an MVP in your association? Perhaps this is your chance to lace up your skates and become one yourself!
REPRESENTING CHICAGOLAND’S CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATIONS, HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS AND COOPERATIVES
Finishing the Game
Perhaps you just concluded a difficult board meeting or tension-filled election where things didn’t go the way you wanted. Demonstrating good sportsmanship even when you “lost” can benefit the association. Instead of hurling insults, storming out of the room or making future board duties difficult, you would better serve the association by remaining civil and polite, offering your assistance on future projects and encouraging the board and management in their duties. Actions and words are contagious; pour out negativity and you will be more likely to reap negativity. Do you want your community to be more selfless, cooperative and friendly? Become a positive example and others will likely follow.
Whether you’re on the team that won or lost, the key thing to remember is that there is always another game – i.e., always another opportunity to work together for the common good. When the final horn sounds and the game is over, meet your opponent with your hand outstretched. Life, just like the game of hockey, can be surprising and can change in 17 seconds. The opponent you didn’t like in today’s game can become a valuable ally down the road when they get traded to your team!
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info@penhart.com 38 | COMMON INTEREST® A Publication of CAI-Illinois Chapter
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