CAI-NJ November 2025

n i t

y

u

M

m

a n

m

C o

a

g e

e

i v

m

c t

e

f e

n

By Eileen Szelewicki, CMCA, FirstService Residential

E f

t

C ommunity management requires a thoughtful approach, blending practical strategies with gen uine care for residents. It’s not just about enforcing rules or maintaining infrastructure. It’s about fostering a sense of trust and collaboration. Successful managers know how to prioritize key areas while remaining adaptable to the unique needs of their community. From communication practices to financial oversight, every decision made by a community manager plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for residents and sustaining the community’s value over time. Having served as a community manager for more than 25 years and receiving the honor and recognition of being named CAI-NJ’s Community Manager of the Year, I am keenly

aware that the community manager plays a central role in transitioning the board’s vision into daily operations. Effective community management is built on several key pillars: Effective Communication Communication is essential for managing a community. Respond to residents by the next business day, even if you don’t have an immediate answer. Let them know you’re working on it and will update them by the end of the week. If you make a mistake, admit it; residents appreciate hones ty. Make emails engaging rather than just enforcing rules. For example, share a humorous story about stepping in a dog’s mess, then remind them to follow the rule: “Pet own ers must pick up after their pets.” Be creative and have fun with communications to make important points memorable.

sorbetto/ /smartboy10/DigitalVision Vectors/Getty Images

CONTINUES ON PAGE 44

42

NOVEMBER 2025