Why Community Engagement Needs to be at the Heart of any Planning Process
No matter what we're trying to accomplish, from planning a community project to brainstorming for organizational growth – it’s essential that we involve the community we’re serving. In Indigenous government cases, these are the ultimate right holders also known as members and citizens depending on unique circumstances of the Indigenous government.
Involving community is non-negotiable.
After all, who better to shape the future of their own environment than those who live and breathe it every day?
Including community members in the strategic planning process creates a sense of ownership, social licensing and “buy-in” – and it makes sure the initiatives we push forward are a true reflection of the community's needs and aspirations.
So – how do we make this happen?
Here are some practical strategies that we use at ZN Advisory as part of our engagement practice when it comes to community planning on any kind.
Embrace a Learning Mindset
The first step in getting any community involved in a project is to approach the process as a learner.
This means setting aside any of our preconceived notions and trying to understand the community's perspective. Don’t walk into the project as if we know everything. Because at the end of the day, we don’t know everything, and it’s important to listen to the people closest to the situation so we can understand what they really need.
The insight gained from being genuinely curious about the situation will go a long way toward informing good work that matters. By listening attentively and keeping an open mind, we can gain invaluable insights into the challenges, desires, and aspirations of community members.
We’ll also help lay the foundation for meaningful buy-in from the full community.
Show Transparency and Accountability
Transparency is key to building trust and engagement within any community.
Openly sharing progress, challenges, and decision-making processes helps community members feel informed and involved. When we think about it, it’s really a simple process: once we’ve done some preliminary listening and defined the issue with insight from the community, we start the work.
And then we go back to the community to show them how the work is progressing. They provide important feedback that can help course-correct where necessary. When we face hurdles or obstacles, involving the community in problem-solving not only helps us get fresh perspective, but also reinforces the concept that everyone is invested in the project's success.
People can feel their contribution to the overall effort. We’re all in it together, and together we can get the project back on track.
Encourage Two-Way Communication
Effective communication is a two-way street. We can’t simply talk AT people – we must talk WITH them.
And while large engagement sessions have their place, not everyone feels comfortable participating in that kind of forum. It’s important to offer different ways for people to participate in the overall effort and to make their voices heard. Offering diverse channels for input, such as one-on-one meetings, written submissions, or social media engagement, ensures that everyone has a voice.
By meeting people where they are and respecting their preferred modes of communication, we can maximize community participation. Creating as much access to engagement as possible is a win for everyone involved.
Match the Community's Pace
Each community operates at its own pace. This is shaped by unique cultural, social, and economic factors that are beyond our control. It's essential to recognize and respect this pace, adjusting our timelines and approaches accordingly.
Rushing the process or imposing external deadlines can lead to disengagement and resentment.
By aligning with the community's rhythm, we can demonstrate respect for their values and priorities.
Prioritize Access and Inclusivity
Inclusivity should be the guiding principle of community engagement. Proactively seek out and create opportunities for all community members to participate, regardless of their background, socioeconomic status, or level of involvement.
By removing barriers to access and providing equitable representation, we can create a sense of belonging and empowerment within the community. The opposite is also true: when we aren’t transparent and we don’t give the community a voice, the situation often breeds animosity.
When people don’t regularly hear about a project’s progress, they start to make up their own stories – and most of the time, those stories aren’t accurate, and they don’t build consensus.
That's why it’s so important for us to purposefully build engagement along the way.
Including the community in the strategic planning process isn't just a checkbox – it's a foundational aspect of responsible and effective governance.
By using the concepts presented here, we can harness the collective wisdom and energy of the community to co-create a future that benefits everyone.
Because when the community thrives, we all thrive.
If you’d like to learn more about these techniques – or to explore what it might look like to get some implementation support – we’d be happy to have a conversation.
Connect with us for a free consultation. We’d love to help!