decisions. If members feel their vote counts, it makes them more receptive to the end result.
ENCOURAGE VOLUNTEERISM
Promote volunteerism, whether it be serving on the board, serving as an election inspector, or something as simple as picking up trash around the property. Encourage the creation of committees to help the board with some of the legwork. All residents—long-time homeowners, new residents and even renters—can contribute to making their community a great place to live by volunteering a few hours a month on any one of several association projects. It helps owners feel more involved – and it can also be a good way to demonstrate exactly how much work goes into running an association! Persuading a chronic complainer to serve on the board usually results in less complaints from the individual. Participating on a board, committee or task force is a great way to not only meet and get to know your neighbors but to feel that your contribution is having a positive impact on the community. According to
HELPGUIDE.org, volunteering can reveal untapped talents, teach new skills, introduce you to new activities and increase your self- confidence. Participating in a community activity can also provide networking opportunities that may benefit your career and your social life.
PHYSICAL CHANGES
Redecorating or remodeling can also improve owner morale. Who wouldn’t be proud of a newly redecorated lobby or new carpet or flooring in the common areas? Or who doesn’t like a new, aesthetically pleasing landscaping project, be it a fountain or pond, lush new bushes or trees, or even colorful decorative flowers? Sometimes, it can be as simple as a new coat of paint in the hallway that effectively removes those scuffs from owners moving in or crayon marks from #103’s visiting grandchildren. Improving curb appeal or interior design makes owners feel prouder to live there. You may also discover that redecorating is a good way to involve the entire community and to enlist new volunteers who have special skills that would benefit the community.
BE A GOOD NEIGHBOR YOURSELF
Last but certainly not least, be the proverbial good neighbor. Being friendly with neighbors is often the best way to prevent and resolve conflict before it gets ugly or escalates, reaching as far as the legal system. Say hello when you’re checking the mailbox, walking your dog or taking out the garbage. When you see a moving van arrive, introduce yourself and welcome the new neighbors. Learn your neighbors’ names and regularly offer a friendly greeting. Provide a heads up if you’re planning a construction project, altering your
46 | COMMON INTEREST® A Publication of CAI-Illinois Chapter
landscaping or hosting a big party. Your neighbors will appreciate the notice and will realize that you’re considerate of them.
Treat your neighbors as you would like to be treated. Be considerate about noise from vehicles, stereos, pets, etc. Respect your differences, be they age, ethnic background, or family structure. Make an effort to understand each other, or try to see things from another’s point of view. Simple efforts and empathy can go a long way toward avoiding misunderstandings. If your neighbors do something you like, let them know. They’ll be pleased you noticed, and it’ll be easier to talk to them later if they do something that you don’t llike. If a neighbor mentions a problem th
IF A NEIGHBOR MENTIONS A PROBLEM THEY HAVE WITH YOU, WAIT FOR ANY ANGER TO SUBSIDE BEFORE RESPONDING.
t ey have with you, wait for any anger to subside before responding. Thank them for the input and remain calm. Consider their feelings and position on why they feel that way. You may realize they could have a valid point if you reversed the roles!
Boosting homeowner morale and raising the profile of your property really doesn’t have to
be that hard, does it? An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as the old saying goes, and proactive management will help keep people in your neighborhood from singing the blues. Cure those blues before the thrill is gone, get your mojo working and let the good times roll!
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