How can you build trust in your community organizing network?

1 Know your network

The first step to building trust is to know who is in your network and what they care about. You can do this by mapping out your network, identifying the key actors, influencers, allies, and potential partners. You can also conduct surveys, interviews, or focus groups to understand their needs, interests, challenges, and expectations. By knowing your network, you can tailor your messages, strategies, and actions to their specific contexts and preferences.

2 Communicate clearly and regularly

Communication is essential for building trust in your network. You need to communicate your vision, goals, values, and plans clearly and regularly. You also need to listen to feedback, questions, and concerns from your network members and respond in a timely and respectful manner. You can use various channels and platforms to communicate with your network, such as emails, newsletters, social media, webinars, or meetings. You can also create opportunities for dialogue and interaction among your network members, such as forums, chats, or workshops.

3 Share resources and opportunities

Another way to build trust in your network is to share resources and opportunities that can benefit your network members. You can share information, tools, skills, contacts, or funding that can help them achieve their goals or overcome their challenges. You can also connect them with other relevant networks or organizations that can offer them support or collaboration. By sharing resources and opportunities, you can demonstrate your generosity, goodwill, and commitment to your network.

4 Recognize and appreciate contributions

Trust also depends on recognition and appreciation. You need to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of your network members, whether they are big or small, individual or collective. You can do this by expressing gratitude, giving feedback, highlighting achievements, or rewarding efforts. You can also showcase the impact and outcomes of your network's work, such as stories, testimonials, or data. By recognizing and appreciating contributions, you can foster a sense of belonging, pride, and motivation in your network.

5 Address conflicts and challenges

Trust is not only about positive interactions, but also about how you handle conflicts and challenges in your network. You need to address any issues or disagreements that may arise in your network in a constructive and respectful way. You need to listen to different perspectives, seek common ground, and find solutions that are fair and acceptable to all parties. You also need to be transparent and accountable for your actions and decisions, and admit and correct any mistakes or failures. By addressing conflicts and challenges, you can prevent mistrust, resentment, or division in your network.

6 Nurture relationships

Trust is not a one-time event, but a continuous process. You need to nurture your relationships with your network members over time. You need to stay in touch, follow up, and update them on your progress and plans. You also need to show interest, empathy, and support for their personal and professional lives. You can also create opportunities for socializing and bonding with your network members, such as informal chats, games, or events. By nurturing relationships, you can strengthen your ties, loyalty, and friendship with your network.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?