Dealing With Difficult Personalities or Situations as a Board Member

As a board member, you will likely face difficult personalities or situations at some point.

It sucks, we know it; that’s why it is essential to know how to deal with these situations in a professional and constructive manner. At Lower My HOA, we created a few tips you can follow for doing just that:

1. Establish clear boundaries

Establishing clear boundaries can help you deal with these challenges professionally and effectively.

First, it is vital to be clear about your personal boundaries. What are you willing to tolerate? What are your red lines? Once you understand your boundaries well, you can start to set limits with others.

If someone is crossing a boundary, be clear and assertive in communicating your expectations. It is also helpful to consult with other board members or colleagues to get their perspectives on the situation.

2. Keep communication channels open

It is important to keep communication channels open, even if the person you are dealing with is difficult. This way, you can continue to exchange information and reach an agreement, even if it takes work.

Try to avoid conflict by being respectful and understanding.

3. Seek help from others

If you are struggling to deal with a difficult situation on your own, seek help from others. Talk to a trusted friend, board member, or professional for guidance and support.

There are people who can help you. Remember, you do not have to deal with this alone.

4. Taking formal actions

In some cases, taking formal action against a problematic individual may be necessary. This could involve anything from issuing a warning to suspending or even removing them from the board (in case they are part of it).

Whatever action you take, ensure it is well thought out and aligned with the community’s policies and procedures. Taking decisive action is often the best way to deal with a difficult situation and protect the interests of the HOA.

You will undoubtedly come across difficult personalities and situations as a board member. So, it is crucial to have the skills to deal with these types of people and situations professionally.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can better deal with whatever comes your way. Remember, the main goal is always to act in the best interest of the community as a whole.

With that said, don’t hesitate to seek help when needed – plenty of resources are available to HOA board members in challenging situations.