If you're a member of your condominium corporation's board, you've likely noticed that you and your fellow board members fall into certain categories or "types." For example, there's always that one board member who's a bit like the smartest kid in class-raises their hand on every question, always knows the answer and just seems better prepared than everyone else. And that could be you, but things always seem to get in the way. After all, being on a condo board is a volunteer position, and as a result, it's probably not your highest priority.
However, you can be the smartest member on your board with just a little more work and practice. Here are some tips to take with you when you're preparing for your next board meeting.
Experience isn't everything
If you're a new board member, you may feel that others who have been on the board for years have a leg up. While there's likely some truth to this, that doesn't automatically mean you can't catch up. Gaining expertise in areas relevant to board management will give you an advantage. Just because a board member has been there for a long time doesn't mean they're up to date in their understanding of governance. Additionally, being around for a while leads some board members into a rut-perhaps you're the one with the fresh set of eyes and some new ideas!
Get educated
While it might be a bit of a pain to set aside time to learn about property law or liability issues, this knowledge will pay off in the long run. Once you understand the lingo, it will be easy to understand-and explain to your fellow board members-future changes. It's like learning any discipline: doing the groundwork is the most important part.
Attend classes and seminars
If learning on your own seems overwhelming, there may be opportunities to take classes or attend lectures related to your role as a condo board member. Some attorneys and organizations in your local community may even offer these for free. You can also check out the wide range of online options available. These make it easy to learn about everything from the details of board meeting rules to the best options for insuring elements of a condominium complex. Many classes, both online and in person, can offer benefits in multiple topics, allowing you to save time while learning valuable information.
If you're looking to learn more about effective condo management, Imperial Properties is here to help. We bring years of experience to our work as one of Winnipeg’s premier condominium management firms, and enjoy working with our clients to ensure their properties are run efficiently and responsibly. Please get in touch to learn more!