Networking Database

Most organizations and people network with others all the time. Starting and maintaining a networking database focuses and organizes people's efforts. If a project or an organization wants to build a strong public involvement base, this is an effective way to do so. While setting up a database can require a substantial amount of time upfront, after that, we find this practice easy to implement and easy on the budget — after all, it's simply people talking to people and then writing a few notes. More>>

Postcard Mailings

Postcards are easy to use and a relatively inexpensive format to reach large numbers of people. Mailing postcards can be so easy, it is important to ask if they will be worthwhile. Will it be read? Will it be returned? For postcards that are giving information, we find they work best if used in conjunction with other tools such as press releases, posters and flyers, and public meetings and workshops. Regardless of what kind of postcard you are using, keep the format in mind: postcards are small so the message must be short and concise. More>>

Press Conferences

If there is breaking news or an event that will draw high-profile participants like elected officials, entertainment stars, or athletes, this is the time to call a press conference. The news media offers an important and powerful means of communicating messages to broad audiences. Sometimes the attention a project receives is not necessarily positive such as when significant controversy surrounds proposed actions. Our advice is to take a proactive approach in working with the media to help ensure that their reporting best reflects your own message and position. More>>

Speakers' Bureau

Use a speakers' bureau anytime you need to spread the word about your project or if you are trying to gather public input. People are busy; they may not be willing to come to a public meeting about a project because of schedule conflicts, distance, not driving at night, or many other reasons. By sending speakers out to regular meetings of civic and church groups, service organizations, neighborhood associations, and other types of clubs, we have been able to reach many more people. More>>

Telephone and Email

For as long as telephones have been around, we still have things to learn about etiquette and maximizing their use. As more people gain access to electronic mail (e-mail), its importance as a communication tool grows exponentially. Because they are both relatively inexpensive and easy, it is tempting to overuse them. However, if used appropriately — with a definite purpose, sparingly, professionally — these tools can increase people's awareness and sense of involvement, improve credibility, and strengthen relationships among a community. More>>

Websites

More and more people are turning to the Internet to find stuff and get answers to questions. As a result, it’s becoming assumed that every group is going to have a web site. While some see it replacing printed literature, be careful of taking that route since not everyone has a computer nor does everyone feel comfortable surfing online. But if a web site is easy to navigate and shows a complete, honest picture of the organization, it can be another effective outreach tool and an ongoing perk for members. More>>

See also:
    Community Tool Box