5 Communication Strategies for Community Management to Improve Engagement

Community management teams can help associations become more efficient and connected with residents. Their services include improving communication with residents and board members to keep all parties informed of upcoming community events or changes. Here are five communication strategies that may boost engagement within community associations:

1. Send Emails and Texts

Contacting community association members through emails and texts allows management teams to communicate directly with residents. Community management companies may implement a resident portal, where emails and texts can be sent through a designated app. This keeps communication more secure and prevents outside parties from viewing sensitive data. The convenience of emails, texts, and in-app messaging may encourage residents to engage more with the management team.

2. Create Newsletters

Weekly or monthly newsletters are communication tools that keep residents informed of upcoming events and key dates. Management teams may distribute digital newsletters or post physical copies in shared spaces like clubhouses. These letters may include information about the community’s monthly maintenance and recreation plans. Newsletters are also good channels for informing community members about compliance issues and upcoming rule changes. This helps residents assess and address compliance issues before they receive formal warnings. Adding phone numbers, email addresses, and other contact information to newsletters encourages residents to reach out to the management team with their concerns.

3. Post Social Media Content

Management teams may help community associations develop effective social media presences to engage with residents. Posting regularly on social media platforms allows current and potential residents to connect with the association. Photo and video posts are good for informational updates. Other types of social media content that may promote resident engagement include giveaways, polls, and live streams. This content helps viewers learn more about the association, share feedback, and build a positive impression of the community. 

4. Schedule Meetings and Events

In-person meetings with association board members and residents allow management teams to share information, listen to concerns, and give direct instruction and support to community members. Scheduling monthly meetings that are open to all residents or limited to board members encourages regular, open communication. These meetings also help residents get to know the management team and their neighbors. This supports more casual conversations and interactions outside of scheduled meetings.

Planning regular community events is another way to prompt residents to interact with each other and the association management. Events like barbeques and community cleanups encourage residents to build relationships while keeping the association functional and safe. Management teams can help communities plan holiday events, family-friendly parties, and other gatherings throughout the year.

5. Create Request Forms

Adding request forms to your community’s online portal allows residents to inform maintenance teams of property damage and schedule repairs. Community documents may specify which maintenance tasks residents are responsible for and which issues on-site maintenance teams handle. Community management oversees on-site maintenance teams and partners with third-party service providers for more significant maintenance projects. Clear communication channels allow management teams to address safety concerns promptly and confirm that the property remains functional and secure.

Anonymous tip lines in the resident portal allow community members to communicate concerns about community property damage or compliance issues. Residents may feel more comfortable raising their concerns if they know their identity is protected. Once the management team receives a tip or complaint, they can meet with involved parties or schedule maintenance to resolve the issue. This process helps minimize resident tension and allows management teams to identify and address concerns quickly. Some communities have phone numbers or email addresses dedicated to receiving resident concerns. This prevents resident communications from getting lost among other administrative messages. When resident concerns are addressed promptly, it may encourage more community engagement, as residents feel seen and heard by the association management team.

Hire a Community Management Company

Hiring a community management company gives your association access to a professional, on-site administrative team. These companies help improve communication with residents and board members. They also enforce community guidelines and schedule maintenance services to confirm the neighborhood is safe and comfortable for residents. Some management teams offer financial services to help communities create budgets and allocate their funds more efficiently. Contact a community management company today to learn more about their services.