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Forging a Path in the HOA Industry

BY BRITTANY MONTOYA-TAYLOR, CCAM

BY ALL ACCOUNTS THE HOA INDUSTRY IS A RELATIVELY YOUNG ONE. There is surprisingly little readily accessible data on the subject considering that 53 percent of homes in the United States are within an HOA. This can prove frustrating for community managers trying to determine career goals. Without industry-approved paths or development programs, community managers are largely left on their own to figure out the next best step.

While career planning without clear cut guidance may seem like a daunting task for some, it also offers immense opportunity for those willing to put in the hard work. The HOA industry is currently experiencing levels of growth that haven’t been seen in over a decade. New developments are popping up at record speed, creating an even greater demand for qualified, professional management.

Even though a set course of action may not be clearly laid out, steps can be taken now so that when the opportunity presents itself, you'll be ready to act.

RELATIONSHIPS

Relationship building is a critical component of success in the community

management profession. Always remember that a board member’s home is close to their heart; this key sentiment drives their willingness to volunteer a lot of time and energy that easily could have been spent on something else. The better you understand and respect that, the more they’ll appreciate you and the sincerity with which you manage their community. Establishing trust in your working relationships will go far to secure your reputation as a go-to person in your field. Consistent hard work will reap benefits in the form of recommendations that may give you just the edge you need when applying for a new position.

NETWORKING

Working in a niche industry affords managers the privilege of building long-lasting connections with those in the field. It is up to you to determine how much time you invest in networking, but the rule of thumb is the more the better. Show your colleagues that you are passionate about your career by volunteering for industry events, writing articles for newsletters or industry magazines and being supportive of others by offering advice, suggestions or help when called upon. Over time your investment will show its worth by way of your colleagues having confidence in you and the person you have shown yourself to be. Yours will be the name that comes to mind the next time a high profile project calls for only highly recommended participants.

EDUCATION

There is no better resource for learning the ins and outs of the community management business than the top-notch educators at CACM. The professionals that teach CACM courses bring many years of valuable experience to their classrooms, giving you an insider’s view on what to expect and how to navigate new territory. These individuals represent all aspects of the industry, ranging from HOA attorneys to CPAs and community managers. It is well worth the effort to take advantage of your time with them by asking as many questions as possible during your time there. The contacts you build through CACM courses and events will amount to an invaluable trove of knowledge that you’ll be able to call upon as the need arises.

By fostering relationships, investing in networking and continually pursuing education, not only will you be prepared to seize any opportunity that presents itself in the industry, but you’ll also be fully established as a qualified candidate by your colleagues. Taking these simple but very effective steps will inevitably open doors and eventually usher you into the next great chapter of your ever evolving career.

Brittany Montoya-Taylor,CCAM is a community manager with Terra West Management Services in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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