Organisations can now see the multiple benefits of community engagement that go way beyond the traditional expectations of consultation and engagement.
Gone are the days when organisations could get away with engaging with just a handful of stakeholders. Today people expect democracy, transparency and collaboration with organisations that may influence their lives, livelihood, future and more. For more information on community engagement, read our ultimate quick guide here.
With the growth of stakeholder engagement processes over the past 20 years, stakeholders are demanding more say in decision-making processes – restricting them by informing them of predetermined outcomes in many situations it is no longer acceptable and broader input early on has higher chances of success.
Utilising online engagement software can make the entire process far-reaching, convenient, cost-effective and time-saving for everybody involved.
Before you commence evaluating online engagement software options and embarking on more regular and robust engagement projects, you must have a clear idea on ‘generally’ who your key stakeholders will be and what is in it for them.
Benefits of community engagement for organisations
- Community Engagement paves the way for richer relationships
Keeping the stakeholders involved through each stage of the project is an amazing way to not just increase awareness but also build relationships. From community members, industry stakeholders to employees it results in sharing a journey, developing long-term trust and building ownership and capacity.
- Stakeholders Give Back in Rough Times
For example, businesses with strong internal communications and high levels of collaboration lead to more engaged, innovative and empowered employees. As organisations continue to evolve through change, including the tough or low times, an engaged employee will continue to remain committed whether it is simply making an effort by staying till late hours to meet the deadlines or staying loyal to your company even when they get tempting offers from your competitors. Engagement helps employees feel valued and a key part of the bigger picture.
The same can be said for external stakeholders who are regularly engaged with – they too will be more loyal in the tough times.
- Stakeholders Look For Authenticity
In our experience, authentic engagement where the full 360-degree process and level of influence etc has been laid out at the start with ongoing acknowledgement and reporting builds an authentic stakeholder panel.
Stakeholders are savvy. They know authenticity when they see it and again it increases their trust in your organisation and brand loyalty.
How Online Engagement Software can help you maximise the benefits of community engagement
Engagement Hub is a completely integrated online engagement software that offers extensive features and tools to drive collaboration and participation. Being cost-effective, secure and user-friendly, utilising engagement software can dramatically reduce the administrative burden and help your organisation reap the benefits of community engagement.
Contact us for a detailed proposal, book a demo to organize an online screen share and discussion of your objectives, or to explore the features in detail on our Engagement Hub demonstration site
