Strategies for Authentic Community Engagement in Politics and Why It Matters
You’ve probably heard of the term “carpetbagger.”
It comes from Southerners referring to opportunistic Northerners who moved to the Civil War-torn South to profit off of struggling communities that hadn’t recovered from the damages of battle. Nowadays, it refers to outsiders coming into a local community to run for office or otherwise use them in an exploitative way, despite having no connection to the community or history.
When you work in politics, whether it’s for a campaign or organization, it’s important to remember that nearly everything you do should be to serve the community first. Simply put, it’s not about you. It’s not about your campaign. It’s not about your organization. It’s about the people you fight for. If it’s not, you might be an empty suit and you should rethink your career choices.
Here’s why authentic community engagement is important and three strategies to engage with your constituents.
Why is authentic community engagement important for political organizations and campaigns?
Authentic community engagement is crucial for organizations because it builds trust, fosters genuine relationships, helps identify real-life problems that need to be solved, and ensures that the voices that you speak for are truly heard. When an organization engages with its community in a sincere and transparent way, it creates a sense of ownership and belonging for the people involved. Rather than just promoting a special interest or cause, organizations that prioritize ongoing dialogue are able to create solutions that are more relevant, effective, and impactful.
Moreover, authentic engagement helps organizations stay accountable and responsive. It allows them to adapt to changing needs, gather valuable feedback, and improve their strategies. In today’s world, where people are more informed and connected than ever, community members can quickly identify when they’re being treated as a means to an end. By focusing on authentic engagement, organizations not only ensure the long-term success of their organization, but the success of their impact on the community.
What are some strategies for community engagement for political organizations?
Host regular community events.
Try events like town halls, workshops, or open houses, where people can gather, share ideas, and discuss issues that matter to them. These events provide a space for dialogue. Your community wants to know that your organization is listening to them, and you get an audience for your thoughts and issues too. It's essential that these events are welcoming and inclusive, ensuring that all voices, regardless of background or perspective, feel heard.
Utilize local partnerships.
Collaborating with community groups, schools, and local businesses can amplify an organization’s reach and credibility. These partnerships help organizations tap into established networks of trust and bring more diverse voices into the conversation.
These partnerships can take the form of formal coalitions, informal kitchen cabinets, or even less formal networks, but they should involve not just the bigwigs and decision makers. Partnerships aren’t just for clout, they’re also a feedback mechanism for policy solutions and movement building. Remember: those closest to the pain should be closest to the solution.
Leverage social media, email, and digital platforms.
Most people have a tenuous relationship with their screen time. Meet people on the platforms they’re already at by engaging with people in real time, sharing updates, and gathering feedback quickly. This creates a space for ongoing communication that goes beyond formal methods. Social media is a great place to respond to breaking news or offer time-sensitive updates. Email gives the illusion of personal communication and allows for segmentation of your network.
Remember: active listening and feedback loops are vital. Organizations should regularly survey or check in with community members to understand their concerns and preferences. This feedback should not only be gathered but acted upon, showing that the organization values and responds to the community's input. By implementing these strategies, organizations can build deeper, more meaningful connections with their local communities and ensure their engagement efforts are both authentic and impactful.
Want more tips on how to make sure your campaign or organization is putting people first? Book a FREE 15-minute strategy session now!