How to become a Cooperative Manager

Business management is a very diverse field with many areas of specialization. The growing need of the hour is for professionals to be experts in their respective domains who are competent in both knowledge and skill to meet the challenges that arise in the conduction of business in their particular line of work. For this reason the management of cooperative societies has been given a distinct place in the world of management studies.
A job as a Cooperative Manager falls under the broader career category of Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers. The information on this page will generally apply to all careers in this category but may not specifically apply to this career title.

Meet with prospective renters and show them properties
Discuss the lease and explain the terms of occupancy or ownership
Collect monthly fees from tenants or individual owners
Inspect all building facilities, including the grounds and equipment
Arrange for new equipment or repairs as needed
Pay bills or delegate bill payment for such expenditures as taxes, insurance, payroll, and maintenance
Contract for trash removal, maintenance, landscaping, security, and other services
Investigate and settle complaints, disturbances, and violations
Keep records of rental activity and owner requests
Prepare budgets and financial reports
Comply with anti-discrimination laws when renting or advertising, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Federal Fair Housing Amendment Act, and local fair housing laws

Customer-service skills. Property, real estate, and community association managers must provide excellent customer service to keep existing clients and expand their business with new ones.

Interpersonal skills. Because property, real estate, and community association managers interact with people every day, they must have excellent interpersonal skills.

Listening skills. Property, real estate, and community association managers must listen to and understand residents and property owners in order to meet their needs.

Organizational skills. Property, real estate, and community association managers must be able to plan, coordinate, and direct multiple contractors at the same time, often for multiple properties.

Problem-solving skills. Property, real estate, and community association managers must be able to mediate disputes or legal issues between residents, homeowners, or board members.

Speaking skills. Property, real estate, and community association managers must understand leasing or rental contracts and must be able to clearly explain the materials and answer questions raised by a resident or group of board members.