Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1532637
In a community association, residents and board members meet regularly to share updates, plan projects, and discuss community issues. Because big things happen during these meetings, minding your manners can mean the difference between a peaceful gathering and a chaotic get-together. It's important to do your part in creating harmony. Check out these seven etiquette tips to make your next community association meeting even more productive. 1. REVIEW THE AGENDA BEFOREHAND. Residents typically have access to the agenda before the scheduled meeting. If it's available, take a few minutes to look it over. Get familiar with the topics, jot down ideas, and be ready to share your thoughts. Doing your homework and coming prepared helps the board move through orders of business quickly, prevents tangents, and sets the stage for meaningful conversations. 2. SHOW UP ON TIME . Being fashionably late to community meetings isn't recommended. A lack of punctuality can be awkward, disruptive, and distracting to speakers and fellow attendees. You might also miss announcements, ask questions that have already been answered, or pull attention away from the topic at hand. 3. GIVE THE DISCUSSION YOUR FULL ATTENTION. Scrolling through your phone to catch up on the latest social media trends might be tempting, but practicing active listening is the best way to get the most from the session. This means silencing your devices, taking notes, and participating when appropriate. 4. WAIT YOUR TURN TO SPEAK UP. A meeting agenda usually includes a designated open forum for residents to provide feedback or suggestions. If you have something to say, wait for the right time to speak up or ask questions. Chiming in at the wrong time can prolong the session and derail dialogue. 5. RESPECT THE OPINIONS OF OTHER RESIDENTS. While everyone wants the community to succeed, residents might not always agree on how to meet collective goals. Opposing opinions or disagreements are totally normal during meetings. Rather than being dismissive or confrontational, show respect, open-mindedness, and patience. By embracing diverse viewpoints and allowing others to explain their side, you can avoid tense situations or heated debates. 6. FOLLOW YOUR ASSOCIATION'S MEETING GUIDELINES. Every managed community has a set of rules that outline how a meeting should be conducted. Most communities follow Robert's Rules of Order (standard parliamentary procedure), but you can likely find official policies in your governing documents. Meetings stay fair, organized, and focused when everyone plays by the rules and understands the flow. 7. ASK ABOUT VIRTUAL MEETING PROTOCOLS. Some communities host virtual meetings to make attendance easier. There should be a clear framework for when and how to respond, who to contact for help, and how to get the speaker's attention through the platform. Ask board members about virtual meeting expectations. It's crucial to let your voice be heard, regardless of how you participate. At community gatherings, you can influence decisions that affect you and your neighbors. However, meetings can become unproductive if residents don't follow proper etiquette. Practicing good meeting manners is a simple way to keep your community connected and get more done! Community association meeting etiquette tips. MEETING MANNERS COMING HOME MAGAZINE 33