The nomination and election process for condo association board of director positions will vary from HOA to HOA (be sure to read your bylaws and governing documents to learn yours), but several similarities span most communities. One is the need to submit an HOA candidate statement.
A candidate statement is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the community and share how you plan to address any issues and concerns facing the association. If you’ve decided to run for a seat on your condo association’s board of directors, below are some things to include in your candidate statement.
What is an HOA Candidate Statement?
Homeowners associations are led by a set of directors known as the HOA board. Condo associations work the same way. These board members are elected by their fellow owners after a nomination and campaign process.
If you’re running for election, you will need an HOA candidate statement. This statement introduces you as a potential board member, outlining who you are, why you qualify, and what you can do for the association.
Candidate statements are essential in any campaign. Voters use them as a way to get to know you, allowing them to make an informed decision. Candidates use them as a channel to get their message and a platform to the voters.
Tips for Drafting an Effective Candidate Statement
Improve your election success by writing a strong HOA candidate statement. It’s your opportunity to announce your candidacy and is an important component of your board campaign. Be sure to review the nomination guidelines to understand the submission guidelines for getting your name on the election ballot – and don’t miss any deadlines!
Here are a few key things to include in your candidate statement.
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- Introduce Who You Are. Begin your candidate statement by briefly introducing yourself. Share a bit of your background both personally and professionally. This can help create connections with your voters.
- Explain Your Qualifications. While there are few formal requirements for serving on the board, there are certain qualifications that make some people better candidates than others. Having the ability to work collaboratively is one important skill. Experience working with budgets or other project management skills can also boost your candidacy.
- Identify Your Goals. Your statement should also outline your goals for the community. What do you hope to accomplish if elected to the board of directors? Identify some of the specific issues you wish to address and how you intend to do so.
- Ask for Their Vote. In closing your statement of candidacy, you might consider asking for their support and vote at the election.
Once you’ve drafted your statement, be sure to proofread it several times. You don’t want a small typo to come back to haunt you. Your HOA candidate statement is an opportunity to present your authentic self to other unit owners and explain the issues most important to you. It’s an important part of your election campaign.
HOA Board Candidate Statement Example
You might have a hard time coming up with your own candidate statement. Fortunately, we’ve prepared some board candidate statement examples that you can use as a template.
Sample Letter to Run for HOA Board
Candidate statements are useful when you’re already running for the HOA board. If candidates haven’t been chosen yet, and you simply want to express your interest in running, you will need a separate letter.
This letter should include:
- A clear statement of your interest in running for a position on the board,
- Your identification and how long you have lived in the community,
- Any relevant background or skills you may have that can help with your service on the board,
- Your willingness to serve and take a more active role, and
- A request for instructions about the process for getting on the ballot, including forms and deadlines.
The best HOA candidate statements adopt a professional and respectful tone. It doesn’t have to be too long, but it should clearly communicate what you want.
Here’s a sample of the letter:
HOA Board Member Short Bio Examples
Your candidate statement should include a brief introduction of yourself. Don’t linger too long on this part, as you might lose readers’ interest. Focus on what makes you a good candidate for the board.
Here are some short candidate statement examples:
Finance Background
I have lived in the community for seven years and currently serve as Treasurer. I work as a certified public accountant with over 15 years of experience in budgeting and financial reporting.
Project Management Experience
I am a five-year resident of the community and currently work as a project manager in the construction industry. I have hands-on experience in vendor coordination, contract review, and project planning, which I will bring to the table if elected.
Legal and Compliance Focus
I have been a homeowner in the association since 2018. As an attorney with experience in compliance and contract negotiation, I can help ensure proper governance and rule enforcement.
Community-Oriented Volunteer
I have lived in the neighborhood for over a decade and previously volunteered on the landscaping committee. I currently work in education, with communication and collaboration as my strong points.
Maintenance and Operations Background
I am a long-time resident with a background in managing facilities. I bring extensive experience overseeing maintenance projects and working with service providers.
First-Time Board Member
I am a three-year resident interested in serving my first term on the board. With a strong corporate background, I bring strong leadership and communication skills.
Sincerity and Brevity
Drafting your HOA candidate statement can seem like a challenge, but it’s quite easy once you get the basics down. It doesn’t have to feature winding descriptions and five-dollar words. You simply have to focus on who you are, what qualifications you have, and how you intend to help the community.
To learn more about board elections and responsibilities, get in touch with us at First Community Management. We partner with condo associations throughout the greater Chicago area, addressing all their association management needs.