Running a successful housing association election hinges on thorough organisation, meticulous planning, and clear communication. A well-executed election ensures that the most capable and representative tenant Board members are elected, helping to drive the association’s goals forward. These goals include enhancing services, fulfilling promises to tenants, and maintaining the financial health of the organisation.
To elect the best candidates, both the candidates and voters must be fully informed about the election process and their respective roles. Candidates must understand the expectations placed upon them, the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience required, and how to present themselves effectively through their application and candidate statement. Meanwhile, voters need clear guidance on the importance of their vote, the voting process, and the timeline.
Delivering the right message is critical, but how the message is delivered can make all the difference. UK Engage, the leading provider of non-statutory electoral services, has extensive experience in managing elections across various sectors, including housing associations, ALMOs & TMOs, NHS Trusts, and professional bodies. Here are five proven strategies that UK Engage recommends to enhance the election process and ensure effective communication with both candidates and voters.
1. Host Comprehensive Candidate Workshops
Pre-election engagement is vital for preparing potential candidates for their roles. UK Engage collaborates with housing associations to conduct candidate workshops that provide essential advice, support, and training. These workshops educate candidates on the responsibilities of a tenant Board member, helping them to assess their fit for the role and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed. This approach not only attracts qualified candidates but also ensures they are well-prepared to contribute effectively to the board.
2. Design Engaging Nomination Forms with Follow-Up Support
The nomination process is a critical step in the election, and how it’s presented can significantly impact candidate participation. UK Engage sets itself apart by offering expertly designed nomination forms that are visually appealing and easy to complete. These forms incorporate the housing association’s branding and use color to enhance engagement. To further increase response rates, UK Engage follows up with potential candidates through personalised calls, offering encouragement and assistance with the nomination process.
3. Personalize Tenant Mailings to Boost Engagement
Direct communication with tenants is essential for a successful election, and personalised mailings have proven to be highly effective. UK Engage crafts tailored messages that resonate with tenants, informing them about the election and encouraging their participation. These mailings are designed not only to convey important information but also to foster a sense of community involvement, ultimately driving voter turnout.
4. Create Dedicated Election Landing Pages
Accessibility to information is key to a transparent election process. UK Engage develops and maintains dedicated landing pages for each housing association election, providing a central hub for all election-related materials. These pages include downloadable resources, important dates, and other pertinent information. The unique URL for the landing page can be shared through tenant mailings, emails, and other communication channels, ensuring that voters and candidates have easy access to the information they need.
5. Implement Multi-Channel Voting Options
Voter convenience is a significant factor in increasing turnout. UK Engage employs a multi-channel approach to voting, offering both paper ballots and online voting options. This flexibility allows tenants to choose the method they are most comfortable with, making it easier for them to participate in the election. The combination of traditional and digital voting methods has been shown to significantly improve voter engagement and participation.
Take the Next Step Toward a Seamless Election Process
Empower your housing association with the tools and expertise needed to ensure a transparent, efficient, and highly engaging election. UK Engage is committed to delivering tailored electoral services that not only streamline the process but also maximise candidate participation and voter turnout.
Our innovative approach combines industry-leading strategies with cutting-edge technology to meet the unique needs of your organisation. Don’t leave the success of your election to chance—partner with UK Engage and benefit from our proven track record in driving election excellence.
To discover how we can elevate your housing association’s election process, reach out to us today. Call us directly at 0345 293 5555, or connect via email at enquiries@uk-engage.org.
Let’s work together to create an election experience that reflects the integrity and values of your association.