When new board members join it is important to make sure they receive some basic training to help them succeed. As a veteran board member it can be easy to assume that most duties are self explanatory, but if you don’t take time to train your new HOA board members, you’re doing them and the entire community a disservice.
To make sure your training is effective and efficient, below are some recommendations:
1. Compile a board member handbook.
This is super helpful to new board members, but it can also serve to help existing members when or if they need something to reference. Make sure it covers general information about board hierarchy, board member duties, expectations, schedule of meetings/events, contact information of each board member and the property management company, and any other general orientation information you feel is necessary for your community.
2. Host orientation.
Make sure all new and existing board members attend. This is a chance for everyone to get to know each other and building a working relationship. It ensures everyone is on the same page and existing members can help train new members. If everyone is new, make sure your property management company attends to help get everyone up to speed.
3. Emphasize the importance of proper enforcement.
What your community doesn’t need is an overzealous board that starts going after violations without following proper procedure. Especially if those board members are new and unfamiliar with protocol and the governing documents.
4. Review governing documents.
We recommended that your board, regardless of the member’s tenure, review all governing documents twice a year, if not annually. This is a good opportunity to make sure that decisions are in line with the rules, and to make sure bylaws are in sync with any changing regulations. Even if no changes are needed, this is great way to make sure every board member stays familiar with the governing documents.
5. Hire professional help.
One of the best ways to ensure consistency and proper board-member training is to have a third-party property management company on retainer. Their unbiased view and expertise in HOA management makes them an invaluable asset to any community.
By implementing these five tactics during new board member initiation, your HOA will experience fewer conflicts and issues down the road. Remember, your board is only as strong as your weakest link. Give every board member the proper resources to be successful at their job. As always, if you are looking for help in training new HOA board members, we recommend visiting Boardline Academy and signing up for one of their certification courses.
