January 2018
Everyone should attend the condo corporation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). While there are many reasons to attend the AGM, one reason tends to be forgotten. The AGM is an opportunity to voice concerns in a venue where discussions are documented. This differs from less formal meetings where things may be discussed with no record for future reference.
Some distinct personalities are likely to attend a condo corporation’s AGM or serve as condo directors. They are the people that interact with condo directors and management each day.
Understanding these personalities is integral to understanding individual agendas and knowing how to deal with them.
Talks, rarely Listens
Some people like to talk but rarely listen. They bring up topics unrelated to condo living and are unable to get to a point which can be resolved. They may bring up traffic, city noise or other issues beyond the influence of a condo corporation and its directors. The best approach is to encourage these individuals to focus on condo matters.
Listener
Some people prefer to sit back and listen which helps them to be particularly well informed. These people have an interest in what is being discussed but may be introverted or uncomfortable in groups. Engaging these individuals in a private conversation can be the best way to learn from them. This engagement can be an effective way for directors and management to learn and be more effective.
Devil’s Advocate
Some people enjoy what-if scenarios and alternative choices. They rarely voice a definitive opinion. These people can be challenging to work with and well-informed. They want to ensure choices are more fully vetted before a final decision is made. A reasonable devil’s advocate can be very helpful. One that is unreasonable or unwilling to make a decision can be a roadblock to effective decision making.
Personal Agenda
Some individuals only get involved when they feel an issue directly impacts them. It is not uncommon for these issues to be relevant to only a small number of condo residents and owners; perhaps a specific rule or change in policy. These individuals will pursue a personal campaign to change something until it benefits them. Only when the personal agenda become relevant to a large number in the community should it warrant more attention.
Reasonable
Some people truly have community interests in mind. They view matters objectively from a community perspective. These are the best individuals to serve as condo directors and committee members. Their input is one of the best ways to make good decisions that benefit a condo community.
