Board Nominations: How to Encourage Participation

Board members play an important role in how condominium and HOA communities operate. They help guide decisions, manage finances, and support the long-term health of the association. Still, many communities struggle to find owners willing to run for the board or see low participation during elections.

Here are a few ideas to encourage more owners to run for the board.

1. Explain What Board Service Really Means

Owners are more likely to participate when they understand what the role actually includes.

Board service typically means:

·       Reviewing budgets and expenses

·       Setting priorities for maintenance and improvements

·       Making decisions that protect property values

·       Representing owners in association decisions

Sharing a short overview of these responsibilities before nominations open helps owners understand the role and decide whether they want to step forward.

2. Start the Nomination Campaign Early and Set Clear Expectations

Uncertainty is one of the biggest barriers to participation. Starting the nomination process early and clearly outlining expectations helps remove that barrier.

Let owners know:

·       Which positions are open

·       How long the terms are

·       How much time the role generally requires

Early communication gives owners time to think it through, ask questions, and feel comfortable stepping forward.

3. Keep Nominations Simple

Even interested owners may hesitate if the nomination process feels complicated. Simplifying how candidates put their names forward can make a big difference.

Consider providing a candidacy statement template so owners know exactly what to submit. This also keeps statements consistent and easier for voters to review.

A typical candidacy statement includes:

·       Name and unit number

·       A short background or professional experience

·       Why the owner wants to serve on the board

·       Any relevant skills or committee experience

4. Run a Board Appreciation Campaign

One of the most effective ways to encourage future candidates is to recognize current board members first.

Board members often carry significant responsibility and may face criticism when issues arise. Showing appreciation helps motivate those currently serving, encourages incumbents to seek re-election, and signals to future candidates that their efforts will be valued.

Here are some board appreciation ideas you can use:

·       Highlighting board achievements in a newsletter

·       Posting a thank-you message in the owner portal or on the community website

·       Sending a thank-you note to all candidates after the election

5. Make Voting Easy for Owners

Voting is the foundation of association governance, but participation is often low. Reminding owners that their vote matters—and making it easy to cast—can improve turnout.

For communities that struggle with quorum, electronic voting can help. Opening elections in advance of the meeting gives owners more time to review candidates and vote. In many cases, quorum can be reached before the meeting even takes place.

Conclusion: How to Encourage Participation in Board Nominations

Board members play a central role in how condominium and HOA communities function. By giving their time and skills, they help the association operate effectively and support a positive living experience for owners.

If your association struggles to attract board candidates, the first step is building awareness. When owners understand what the board does and how their decisions impact the community, they are more likely to consider getting involved.

Encouraging participation in meetings and votes is also key. Owners who regularly take part in community decisions are more likely to develop an interest in leadership roles. Making participation easy—through virtual meetings or electronic voting—helps owners stay engaged and informed.

When associations reduce barriers and create clear, accessible ways for owners to participate, interest in board service naturally grows, leading to stronger governance and a more engaged community.