Sunday, 13 January 2019

Useful Community Engagement Consultant Tips

By Christopher Jones


It is common to see key players in society make policies without the full engagement of those affected by the policies. Failure to engage members of the society in policy making is the main reason policies become invalid. To get positive results when implementing any project or decision making, key investors are required to discuss important issues with communities. However, the process is not simply due to time restriction, budgets and lifestyle practices of different individuals. If you intend to engage communities in projects, consider applying these useful community engagement consultant methods.

Understanding the different characteristics communities possess is the first step to creating effective plans. There is no one fits size engagement strategy for any community. Successful consultants design flexible programs which they can adjust when required. Adjustable plans help you switch engagement practices to fit the culture, customs, traditions, and demography of a certain society. With flexible plans, it is possible to easily achieve positive outcomes.

Partner with existing groups to pass information to the target audience, collect feedback and organize social gatherings for engagement. Look for local networks like service agencies, block groups, and not-for-profit organizations. Find out if local networks are willing to partner by sharing details about the process. Building relationships with local groups is a great way to leverage when starting a project because they have good connections with local leaders and communities.

It is important to reward individuals who take their time to engage in projects and discussions. Members of the community feel a sense of belonging when they are awarded for their participation in decision making. Incentives should not be expensive, simple gifts even snacks help you attract an audience to community engagement.

To engage your audience in projects and policy making, you must respond. Communities feel satisfied working with a consultant who understands their needs and encourages them. Responsive consultants invest time to listen to the needs of locals who take time to respond to them. Communities engage fully in engagements if the leader responds in a positive emotion towards their needs.

Maintaining a group of audience for a long period has proven difficult for many consultants. To avoid low turnout during group meetings and activities, use informative and entertaining content. You can use readable materials, different forms of entertainment like music, acting, and comedy. Consider publishing emotional images to help the audience understand a specific topic. People respond effectively to images that demonstrate real-time events.

Talk is important when dealing with large groups in a specific community. People show interest in programs where real life talk is highly valued. Encourage members to share their life experiences. This tactic opens up room for discussion and promotes effective means of communication.

Failure to understand the needs of individuals in a certain community is the reasons policies fail. Consultants are expected to identify, understand and act upon the needs of the audience. The best results can be achieved by being consistent in what you share. Whether you choose to share entertaining information or maintain a serious mindset, ensure the information is precise and relevant.




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