As the CEO of a management company dedicated to facilitating harmonious community associations, the foundation of a successful partnership lies in the mutual respect shared between board members and managers. I conducted a recent poll on LinkedIn, and the results revealed that 39% of managers feel disrespected by board members, highlighting the pressing need to address this issue. In this blog, I would like to emphasize the importance of cultivating a positive working environment and provide actionable steps that board members can take to bridge this divide.

The relationship between board members and managers is crucial to the smooth functioning of a community association. Board members bring invaluable insights, guiding the association's vision and goals, while managers offer expertise and operational support to implement those objectives effectively. It is this dynamic partnership that lays the groundwork for a thriving community.

However, when respect becomes compromised, the synergy between board members and managers can falter, hindering progress and causing unnecessary friction. It erodes trust, stifles open communication, and diminishes morale among managers, who are instrumental in realizing the community's vision.

So, what steps can board members take to avoid managers feeling disrespected? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Promote Open Communication: Encourage an environment where managers feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. Actively listen to their suggestions and acknowledge their expertise, recognizing the value they bring to the association.

2. Set Clear Expectations: Establish transparent guidelines and expectations for managers, ensuring they fully understand their roles and responsibilities. Similarly, board members should clearly understand their roles and limitations to foster a cooperative atmosphere.

3. Recognize Achievements: Celebrate the accomplishments of managers and their teams. Acknowledge their efforts and publicly recognize their contributions, motivating them to strive for excellence.

4. Foster Professional Development: Support managers in enhancing their skills and knowledge through professional development opportunities. Investing in their growth demonstrates your commitment to their success and strengthens the partnership.

5. Embrace Constructive Feedback: Encourage open and honest feedback from managers and in turn, provide constructive criticism when necessary. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, board members can facilitate a healthier and more productive working relationship.

Remember, the ultimate goal of both board members and managers is to create a thriving and harmonious community association. By nurturing respect, trust, and open communication, we can forge a partnership that is resilient and mutually beneficial.

Let us strive to create an environment where board members and managers collaborate seamlessly, leveraging their unique skills and perspectives to drive positive change. Together, we can build stronger community associations that foster growth, unity, and happiness.

In conclusion, while the poll results indicate room for improvement, I am confident that we can overcome these challenges through our collective efforts. By prioritizing respect, understanding, and collaboration, we can forge a partnership that ensures the success of our community associations.

Let us work hand in hand, fostering a respectful culture and creating a brighter future for our communities.