In every community, organisation, and society, there is one constant: people. People with needs, hopes, values, and a desire to be part of something bigger than themselves. When we talk about community engagement, we’re really talking about connection, the human kind. It’s not about checking boxes or hosting town halls; it’s about building trust, listeningContinue reading “Understanding community engagement in a connected society”
Tag Archives: communication
Two ears and one mouth: why listening is the heart beat of stakeholder engagement
We’re wired to speak. But we’re built to listen. You’ve probably heard the old saying: “We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.” It’s an idea so simple it sounds almost quaint, but in the world of stakeholder engagement, it’s revolutionary. There’s a reason weContinue reading “Two ears and one mouth: why listening is the heart beat of stakeholder engagement”
Broadening our stakeholder lens beyond the political spectrum
When we think about stakeholder engagement in major infrastructure projects, it’s easy to gravitate towards the most visible and powerful voices: our MPs and Councillors. After all, they hold elected office, they’re easy to find in the phonebook, and they often have the authority to shape public perception and funding decisions. But if we focusContinue reading “Broadening our stakeholder lens beyond the political spectrum”
Start with listening: the art of conversation and the engine behind infrastructure projects success
We often think of infrastructure as concrete and steel, bridges, roads, tunnels, cables. But the real infrastructure, the invisible one that powers progress, is human. It’s the network of relationships, trust, and shared purpose between people. That’s where the art of conversation comes in. We’re not just building things, we’re building belief. Whether it’s aContinue reading “Start with listening: the art of conversation and the engine behind infrastructure projects success”
Building bridges: steps to improve stakeholder relationships
Effective stakeholder relationships are the cornerstone of successful projects, initiatives, and organisations. Whether in business, government, or the nonprofit sector, cultivating positive and mutually beneficial relationships with stakeholders is essential for achieving shared goals, fostering trust, and driving sustainable outcomes. However, building and maintaining these relationships requires intentional effort, clear communication, and a commitment toContinue reading “Building bridges: steps to improve stakeholder relationships”
Humanising stakeholders: transforming labels into people
In our pursuit of success, we often overlook the fundamental truth that business is, at its core, about people. When we talk about stakeholders, it’s easy to reduce them to mere labels: customers, members of the public, communities, statutory bodies, authorities, officers. But labels are impersonal. They strip away the individuality and humanity of theContinue reading “Humanising stakeholders: transforming labels into people”
A guide to talking to stakeholders: keep it real or stay at home
Right, I’m about to share some wisdom on a topic more crucial than remembering to put fuel in your car before setting off on a long journey: how to connect with your stakeholders. Now, if you’re thinking this involves a lot of tedious corporate jargon and soul-sucking PowerPoint presentations, you’re as wrong as a veganContinue reading “A guide to talking to stakeholders: keep it real or stay at home”
Communication vs Engagement: the same thing, right…
Communication is important in basically every aspect of life. It’s integral to successful project management and, used effectively, can help stakeholders understand what’s going on and help reduce public backlash. But what about engagement? Is there a difference between communication and engagement? It’s an important question and there are notable distinctions worth considering when developing strategies andContinue reading “Communication vs Engagement: the same thing, right…”
Rapport North 