Never Settle: Differences Between Good and Great Community Managers
In the world of community management, there is a significant difference between good and great. A good community manager may handle the day-to-day operations smoothly, but a great community manager goes above and beyond to elevate their community and make it thrive.
If you’re assessing HOA management firms to find your perfect fit, it’s important to find a community manager that isn’t just good — they’re great. For those wondering what the difference truly is, here are some key differentiators between good and great community managers.
They’re Proactive
Good community managers are reactive; they respond to issues promptly as they arise. Great community managers, on the other hand, are proactive. They anticipate potential problems and take the necessary steps to prevent them before they even happen. This approach not only eliminates potential issues but also showcases their dedication to the community’s well-being.
Proactive community managers also take the initiative to improve their HOA continuously. They constantly monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to identify areas for improvement for their community. By compiling this information, HOA board members simply have to show up to meetings and make thoughtful decisions about the information in front of them. If your board members’ jobs aren’t made significantly easier, then you don’t have a great community manager.
They’re True Partners in the Process
Good HOA managers fulfill their job responsibilities, but they may not foster a strong partnership with their board members. Great community managers don’t just execute tasks; they see themselves as an extension of their board, working together toward a common goal of improving the overall community and helping it thrive.
Community managers should understand the importance of collaboration and communication when it comes to making decisions that impact the community. Although final decisions are always made by the board, effective HOA managers should be engaged in the HOA’s goals and planning. They should communicate effectively with board members, setting up annual review meetings and offering frequent updates on community projects.
They Strive to Create a Sense of Community
Good community managers may oversee the operations of the community, but great community managers strive to create a strong sense of community. They understand that an HOA is more than just a housing tract; it’s a neighborhood where people live and form meaningful connections with one another. Community managers should go above and beyond their job responsibilities to build a true sense of belonging and community.
Great community managers will organize events and activities that bring residents together. These can include holiday parties, community clubs, seasonal events, and more. They facilitate opportunities for residents to interact with one another, fostering a strong sense of community among homeowners.
They’re Always Learning
The rules, regulations, and industry trends surrounding homeowners associations are constantly evolving, so a truly great community manager will constantly strive to learn and remain up-to-date. They are constantly seeking out new knowledge and skills to improve their abilities and stay ahead in the industry.
A great community manager will attend industry conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay updated on the most recent community management best practices. They will also continuously learn from their experiences on the job, using their successes and failures to improve upon their management strategies.
They Make Everyone Feel Heard
One of the most significant differences between good and great community managers is their approach to communication and interpersonal dynamics. While good community managers may communicate effectively, great community managers go the extra mile to make sure everyone feels heard and considered. They understand how to balance personalities, build trust, and foster a positive community environment.
Great community managers will make a conscious effort to listen to the needs and concerns of residents, board members, and staff. They encourage open dialogue and create opportunities for feedback, making everyone feel valued and respected. Rather than simply smooth over conflicts, they will help to align all parties and implement a solution that works for everyone, truly resolving grievances instead of kicking them further down the road.
At The Management Trust, we ensure that each and every one of our community managers is truly great. This unwavering standard of quality service, paired with our employee-ownership difference, enables us to offer personalized community management services unlike any other. Where other HOA management companies can be reactive, we strive to always be proactive and ensure that your HOA is a happy and stress-free place to live. If you’d like to learn more about The Management Trust difference, contact us today and get started.
