The P wer O


POSITIVITY e Power Of  Continued From Page 15 Advice & Examples About How To Implement


Association Correspondence, Postings, and


Governing Documents:


When drafting correspondence, newsletters, or posts that include bad news or a topic that may spark controversy, focus on being upfront about the intent of your message and explaining your reasoning or the process that led to the communication.


Think about how the recipients may feel when they read your message, acknowledge the validity of those reactions within your message, and suggest a productive method for them to respond or offer proposed resolutions.


When it comes to rules and regulations, small changes in language can make a big difference in gaining compliance and support from the community. No one likes to be told what to do, but residents are more likely to willingly comply with  language and explain the positive outcome of compliance. Take the time to review your association documents to see where improvements could be made.


For Example:  Change “Don’t forget to mow your lawn” to “Please remember to mow your lawn to keep our community a great looking place to live.”


 Instead of “No dogs allowed at the playground” consider “Please remember to leave your furry friends at home when visiting the playground.”


Vision/ Mission Statements:


Consider adopting vision and mission statement for the community. Not only do these convey a professional, positive image to residents, but the process of their creation can help bring a community together. Plan to create these statements at an annual meeting and promote this information on the meeting paperwork to residents so they can come prepared to participate.


For the vision statement, outline the purpose and values of the association which can help inspire current and prospective residents. Include a long- term view of the community standard you may wish to meet. This should  mission statement.


A mission statement can also convey to the community the association’s goals and how you may achieve them. This statement may change over time as the association grows. Many examples of mission and vision statements are available online for inspiration.


After statements have been adopted, be sure to include them as a part of association documents, newsletters, website, or even cover letters.


Give Volunteers Recognition:


Acknowledge volunteers who work for the association in their free time. Consider providing them with a  recognizing them in the community newsletter, or on the association’s social media page or website.


A handwritten note is always a nice gesture, and though it only takes a few minutes of your time, the gesture often means a lot to others.


Thank you cards, birthday cards, and anniversary cards are also wonderful ways to recognize someone who works hard for the association.


People will often reference these events in passing, such as “I can’t attend a board meeting on that date because we are going out of town for our anniversary.” Picking up on this small piece of information and sending a quick card is a welcome surprise to the recipient.


16 Community Associations Journal | May 2020


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