How do you build and maintain professional relationships in library advocacy?

1 Identify your stakeholders

The first step in building relationships is to identify who your stakeholders are and what their needs, interests, and expectations are. Stakeholders are anyone who can influence or benefit from your library's services, programs, or policies. They may include local, state, or federal officials, community leaders, donors, media, educators, researchers, or other library professionals. To identify your stakeholders, you can use tools such as stakeholder analysis, mapping, or surveys. You can also consult with your colleagues, peers, or mentors for insights and recommendations.

2 Communicate your value

The next step is to communicate your library's value and impact to your stakeholders in a clear, consistent, and compelling way. Value is the difference that your library makes in the lives of your users and the community. Impact is the evidence that shows how your library contributes to specific outcomes or goals. To communicate your value and impact, you can use tools such as stories, testimonials, statistics, reports, or infographics. You can also tailor your messages to the specific needs, interests, and expectations of each stakeholder group.

3 Engage in dialogue

The third step is to engage in dialogue with your stakeholders to build trust, understanding, and collaboration. Dialogue is a two-way exchange of information, ideas, and feedback that fosters mutual respect and learning. To engage in dialogue, you can use tools such as meetings, events, newsletters, social media, or webinars. You can also listen actively, ask open-ended questions, acknowledge different perspectives, and address concerns or challenges.

4 Nurture your relationships

The fourth step is to nurture your relationships with your stakeholders by following up, providing updates, and showing appreciation. Nurturing your relationships means keeping in touch, delivering on your promises, and recognizing your stakeholders' contributions and support. To nurture your relationships, you can use tools such as thank-you notes, cards, gifts, or invitations. You can also seek feedback, offer assistance, and celebrate successes.

5 Expand your network

The fifth step is to expand your network by reaching out to new or potential stakeholders who can help you achieve your library's goals and interests. Expanding your network means identifying opportunities, making connections, and creating partnerships. To expand your network, you can use tools such as referrals, introductions, or collaborations. You can also attend events, join associations, or volunteer for committees.

6 Evaluate your results

The sixth step is to evaluate your results by measuring and reporting on the outcomes and impacts of your relationship-building efforts. Evaluating your results means assessing your progress, identifying your strengths and weaknesses, and demonstrating your accountability and value. To evaluate your results, you can use tools such as surveys, interviews, or focus groups. You can also collect data, analyze trends, or write case studies.

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?