May 28, 2025 | Mark Luis Foster
We hear it all the time at the network: How can I recruit fellow homeowners to take my board spot when it expires?
It’s an age-old problem that doesn’t seem to be getting any relief. A January study by Door Loop indicated that some 63% of HOA homeowners don’t attend meetings on a regular basis due to time constraints. You can only imagine who’s left to volunteer on a board that requires even more time and responsibilities. Add on top of that the threat of more legislation from our elected officials (thankfully on hold for now), and you end up with an untenable board leadership problem.
We all know that Homeowner Association boards in Minnesota play a crucial role in maintaining property values, ensuring good governance, and fostering community spirit. Engaging fellow residents to volunteer for these vital roles is essential for the smooth operation of the HOA, but such recruitment baffles most of us and leads to current members have to keep filling the positions that they’ve occupied for quite some time.
We’ll try to focus on the issue of recruitment at future chapter meetings. For now, below are a few strategies you can employ to encourage participation in community governance.
- Highlight the Importance of Board Roles
Communicate the Impact
Start by clearly communicating the significance of board positions. Many people don’t understand the importance, and it can be a slippery slope to ensure you don’t scare people away. However, by emphasizing how active participation can directly influence property values and community well-being, some homeowners will take notice. For example, a well-managed HOA can lead to enhanced landscaping, improved amenities, and better overall maintenance, which all contribute to higher property values. There are homeowners who care plenty about these issues.
Share Success Stories
Use examples from your own HOA or others to illustrate the positive impact a strong board can have on properties. For instance, if a previous board successfully implemented a new landscaping plan that beautified common areas and increased property values, share this story in your communications. There are many success stories from the past and present that can be shared, and too often we just don’t brag or share these successes often enough.
- Host Board Information Events
Organize Q&A Sessions
Host informal gatherings or no obligation Q&A sessions in which current board members can share their experiences and answer questions from potential candidates. This can alleviate fears about the responsibilities involved and demonstrate the rewarding aspects of serving on the board. Honest dialogue can be quite helpful in explaining the true aspects of board leadership.
Consider a “Board Member for a Day” Program
We’ve heard several HOAs try this approach with some success. Offer homeowners a chance to shadow current board members during meetings or community events. This firsthand experience can help demystify the board’s functions and show how impactful their involvement can be.
- Utilize Multiple Communication Channels
Leverage Social Media
Create a dedicated Facebook group or use Nextdoor to reach out to homeowners. Post updates about open positions, highlight board accomplishments, and encourage others to consider serving. Social media can foster a sense of community and allow for real-time engagement. A regular newsletter can also be helpful in showing impact and keeping homeowners informed on what’s going on and how the board is making a difference.
Send Out Informational Flyers
Design and distribute flyers or newsletters that explain the roles and responsibilities of board members. Include testimonials from current or past members about their experiences and the benefits of participation.
- Create an Incentive Program
Offer Incentives
Less common are incentives, but may be worth a try. Consider implementing a small incentive program for board members, such as a discount on HOA dues (if it can be done according to rules and regs) or recognition in HOA communications, such as newsletters. This can encourage homeowners to consider the position more seriously.
Recognize Contributions
Publicly acknowledge the contributions of board members during community meetings or through newsletters and regular communications streams. Recognition can motivate others to step forward and serve, knowing their fellow board members get kudos and recognition on an ongoing basis.
There is no silver bullet, unfortunately. But like anything in life, communication is key to sending the right messages to homeowners to get them motivated to become involved in the process that is so important to HOA living.
