Fallout from work-related stress pervades the U.S. workplace and economy. Leaders within the community association field are emphasizing the importance of physical and mental wellness in the battle over workplace stress.
People often talk about our industry in a negative light, and everyone is burned out from the negativity. As I embark on my term as CAI president this year, I would like to engage in a much broader health and wellness conversation. What if we focused efforts around the good? Imagine spending time and energy promoting the positive aspects of managing a community.
Stress and mental health issues in the workplace are a pandemic that is far larger than COVID-19 or any other disease currently or recently dealt with in the world. Stigma about mental health still exists, but progress is being made, and there are strategies that can be taken to mitigate it.
The job of the community association manager is part financial management, urban planning, facilities maintenance, community development, volunteer management, and project management. Good managers also learn to master seven soft skills and knowledge.
Community association management companies need to address things like mentorship, burnout, and conflict resolution to be great leaders. David Graf, president of CAI’s College of Community Association Lawyers, was among the presenters who taught CEO-MC Retreat attendees how to build those skills.
