About 74.2 million Americans (nearly 30% of the country) live in homeowners associations. However, many community members don't engage with the HOA board or each other. Without regular HOA meetings, you may struggle to keep members on the same page.
This can lead to distrust and miscommunication. Before that happens, apply these tips to boost attendance at your next meeting. Ensure community building and improve everyone's long-term property value today!
Provide Notice
Community members won't cancel personal plans to attend an HOA meeting. Make sure to give them ample notice before upcoming events. This will ensure there aren't conflicting commitments.
Provide notice at least one month in advance. Send members a reminder closer to the meeting day. This will enhance communication and satisfaction.
Expand Communication Methods
State laws dictate the methods you use to send notices about upcoming meetings. However, you're not limited to one method. Sending notices using multiple methods can increase awareness.
Send members reminders about upcoming meetings electronically, via mail, or personally. You can also post a reminder on:
- Signs or bulletin boards
- The community's website calendar
- Printed or electronic community newsletters
- The community's social media pages
Communicating using different methods will help you appeal to different age groups. Gen Z and millennials communicate digitally more often than in person. Using your website, social media, and emails can boost their attendance.
Consider Scheduling
Increase attendance by scheduling your next meeting in the evening. Otherwise, community members who are working won't attend.
Choose a venue that's big enough to accommodate a large group. If there isn't enough seating, members may leave early.
Avoid long-winded, exhausting meetings. Instead, schedule short meetings virtually. This can help increase attendance, especially among less mobile community members.
Members will have the option to attend from the comforts of their own homes. Talk to an HOA management company for more ways to implement technology effectively.
Cover Shared Interests
Let community members know what topics you intend to cover at your upcoming meetings. Creating an agenda will ensure everyone is on the same page.
Try to cover shared interests. For example, perhaps you need to discuss updating shared amenities or homeowner fees. Covering these topics will attract members looking for further information.
Make It a Moment
HOA meetings don't have to be boring. Instead, make them an opportunity for community building.
Consider holding a raffle or organizing time to play games after the meeting. Let people know there will be food.
Schedule these moments after you've covered the agenda. You'll get people to attend and stay until the end of the meeting.
Hire an HOA Management Company
You don't have to apply these strategies alone. Instead, work with an HOA management company. Their strategies can increase attendance and ensure more productive meetings.
Increase Attendance at HOA Meetings
Increasing community attendance at your HOA meetings can ensure all members are on the same page. You can discuss important matters and make decisions that benefit the community. Use these tips to start filling meeting venues!
Remember, you don't have to do it alone. Our team at PMI Henderson has 20 years of experience supporting communities like yours.
Trust our expertise, proven strategies, and state-of-the-art technology. Contact us for help with your next HOA meeting!
