Admittedly I was a little green to facilitation, blissfully ignorant of the fallout that was to ensue from not clearly establishing group norms at the outset. Community conversation number 19 and cross-sector diversity set the bomb off!
Cynical Jane Doe had the audacity to full out laugh at John Doe's idea while snidely tossing in "We've tried that before!" just for good measure. Inside I was aghast by the blatant disrespect and instantly fuming. Outside I was furiously fumbling to portray calm and collected.
Jane Doe is a longstanding volunteer: exhausted, overwhelmed and feeling defeated. Sadly, what makes cynical Jane's comment slightly absurd is the all too familiar cry for new community volunteers. John Doe was a brand new face at the table, an untapped potential resource. Unfortunately he got hammered (not tapped) by this rear view mirror mentality that kills optimism.
Be prepared, as increasing diversity is intentionally sought at the table, sparks can easily fly. Strive to make it bomb proof. Consciously use processes and tools that build trust.
BOTTOMLINE
While the WHO (cross-sector representation) is important and achieving the WHAT (rigor around data/results) is important... the secret sauce lies in the HOW (the process whereby relationships are deliberately fostered).
"Collaboration will only move at the speed of trust." -- Stephen M.R. Covey
Sunday 14 June 2015
Wednesday 25 March 2015
Go Ask
Want in on a secret we uncovered, one that blew all other marketing strategies out of the water? Beware that what I am about to share may seem ridiculously elementary and boringly plain.
What is the most effective way to get people involved? A face-to-face personal ask -- particularly from someone who has a well-established positive relationship with the target individual.
Obviously it is most comfortable to converse with the "like" minds of our established groups but do we find ourselves saying "We just can't seem to attract new people." These new people aren't invisible or in hiding: the neighbour, the grocery store clerk, those we walk by on the street without so much as a smile or friendly hello.
Community engagement takes concerted effort BUT it starts with a simple hello and comes with joyful rewards. One of which has been to debunk my own arrogant, self-justifying assumption that those who aren't engaged do not want to be. With a face-to-face personal ask, we found out that they are eager and have tons to offer!
Relationships that bridge across group boundaries are key to long term resilience as they foster strong vibrant networks. NOW is always the time to reach out and start building new relationships -- face-to-face. Don't expect to sit at a desk behind a computer and change the world.
Helpful "Go Ask" tools:
* Top 100 Partners Exercise - assists in thinking across group boundaries
* A well crafted 30-second elevator speech - start with why (the purpose, cause or belief that inspires you to do what you do)
* Catchy token to gift away - captivating imagery with concise, plain language messaging that showcases your why and how they can easily participate
Paul Born - The Top 100 Partners Exercise
Simon Sinek - Start With Why
What is the most effective way to get people involved? A face-to-face personal ask -- particularly from someone who has a well-established positive relationship with the target individual.
Obviously it is most comfortable to converse with the "like" minds of our established groups but do we find ourselves saying "We just can't seem to attract new people." These new people aren't invisible or in hiding: the neighbour, the grocery store clerk, those we walk by on the street without so much as a smile or friendly hello.
Community engagement takes concerted effort BUT it starts with a simple hello and comes with joyful rewards. One of which has been to debunk my own arrogant, self-justifying assumption that those who aren't engaged do not want to be. With a face-to-face personal ask, we found out that they are eager and have tons to offer!
Relationships that bridge across group boundaries are key to long term resilience as they foster strong vibrant networks. NOW is always the time to reach out and start building new relationships -- face-to-face. Don't expect to sit at a desk behind a computer and change the world.
Helpful "Go Ask" tools:
* Top 100 Partners Exercise - assists in thinking across group boundaries
* A well crafted 30-second elevator speech - start with why (the purpose, cause or belief that inspires you to do what you do)
* Catchy token to gift away - captivating imagery with concise, plain language messaging that showcases your why and how they can easily participate
Paul Born - The Top 100 Partners Exercise
Simon Sinek - Start With Why
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