December 2016

MANAGEMENT TRENDS

What Makes A Community By Beth Duffy, CMCA, AMS, Premier Management Associates

C ommunity, by definition in good old Webster’s Dictionary, has several meanings, but the one that will work best for me today is “a group of people living together as a smaller social unit within a larger one, and having interests, work, etc. in common.” The most fulfilling aspect of my job as a property manag- er is helping my residents understand that they are part of a community; that there are people around to help answer their questions or point them in the right direction. Not just myself and the administrator, but the neighbors, the maintenance staff, the Board of Trustees, and Committee members. Being knowledgeable in community association man- agement, through the various courses offered through CAI helps to ensure that community-wide business runs smoothly. While we earn our educational credits towards various credentials, we also need to learn how to deal with people effectively. It is very helpful when assisting the members of the community of being able to communicate fluently when there is an issue to be addressed. Knowing where to go, who to call, how to proceed. Whether it be an all-age or active-adult community, it is important to try and bring everyone together for an activ- ity or event. Even if it’s just once a year, an annual pool

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party, a Halloween party, or even a member of the local government coming in to meet and greet, help to enhance the Community feeling. Although times are changing and technology and social media are the new norm, a simple newsletter or monthly email blast to the community helps to keep folks in the loop and also keeps the lines of communication open. n "While we earn our educational credits towards various credentials, we also need to learn how to deal with people effectively."

See the National 2017 PMDP schedule on page 37 of this issue!

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