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take the time to listen respectfully, clarify their perspective, and acknowledge that they have been heard.
Caution is essential when discussing board matters. Limit your comments to actions that have been officially approved and recorded. Use the actual language of the board’ s decision whenever possible. Avoid speculating about future actions, discussing unfinished matters, or offering personal interpretations that could later be misunderstood.
If you are uncertain about details, refer owners to the board president for clarification regarding board decisions or to the resort manager for questions involving implementation and operations. Doing so protects both you and the board from unnecessary confusion or miscommunication.
Communicating with Resort Staff
Communication with staff requires equal care. Although an individual board member is not the direct supervisor of resort employees, staff members often view board members as authority figures. Casual comments may be interpreted as instructions, criticism, or changes in policy.
The board governs the resort, while the manager is responsible for day-to-day operations and employee supervision. Respecting that distinction is critical. Translating board policy into operational procedures is a detailed and often complex process that falls within management’ s responsibilities rather than the board members’ role.
Board members should avoid giving direction to staff, offering operational advice, or discussing board decisions with employees. Regardless of your prior professional experience or expertise, your role is governance rather than management.
Protect Confidential Information
Confidentiality is one of the most serious responsibilities of board service. Board members often receive sensitive information involving personnel matters, legal issues, financial details, contract negotiations, or pending actions. Sharing confidential information— even casually— can expose the resort to significant
Jul / Aug, 2026 | TimeSharing Today legal, financial, and operational risks.
Final Thoughts
Serving on a board requires learning how to function within a group authority structure. That adjustment can take time, particularly for new board members who are accustomed to speaking freely as individual owners.
A thoughtful and disciplined communication style will serve you well. Listen carefully, speak factually about approved decisions, avoid speculation, respect management’ s operational authority, and remember that your role is to support clear and consistent communication on behalf of the board
Lynne Kweder is an organization development consultant, business coach, trainer of boards of directors and management, and administrator. She served as board president of Turtle Reef Condominiums I, Inc., in Jensen Beach, FL, for seven years.
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