How do you deal with power dynamics and conflicts that may arise in a collective impact partnership?

1 Understand power dynamics

Power dynamics are inevitable in any partnership, especially when it involves different sectors, backgrounds, and interests. Power can be based on resources, influence, expertise, legitimacy, or other factors. To deal with power dynamics, you need to understand how they operate in your context, who has more or less power, and how they affect the partnership's goals and processes. You also need to acknowledge and address any power imbalances or abuses that may undermine the partnership's effectiveness and equity.

2 Communicate openly and respectfully

Communication is key to building trust and resolving conflicts in a collective impact partnership. You need to communicate openly and respectfully with your partners, share relevant information and feedback, listen actively and empathetically, and seek to understand different perspectives and needs. You also need to communicate clearly and consistently about the partnership's vision, mission, values, roles, expectations, and outcomes. Communication should be regular, transparent, and inclusive, using various channels and formats to reach all partners.

3 Manage conflicts constructively

Conflicts are inevitable in any partnership, especially when it involves diverse and passionate stakeholders who may have different opinions, interests, or approaches. Conflicts can be constructive or destructive, depending on how they are managed. To manage conflicts constructively, you need to identify the sources and types of conflicts, recognize the emotions and assumptions involved, and use appropriate strategies and skills to address them. You also need to create a culture of respect, dialogue, and learning, where conflicts are seen as opportunities for improvement and innovation.

4 Collaborate effectively

Collaboration is the essence of collective impact, but it is not easy to achieve. Collaboration requires a shared vision and commitment, aligned activities and resources, coordinated actions and decisions, and mutual accountability and learning. To collaborate effectively, you need to establish and follow clear governance structures and processes, define and distribute roles and responsibilities, leverage the strengths and assets of each partner, and monitor and evaluate the partnership's performance and impact.

5 Learn and adapt

Collective impact is a dynamic and iterative process that requires constant learning and adaptation. Learning and adaptation involve collecting and analyzing data and evidence, sharing and applying insights and lessons, and making changes and improvements based on feedback and results. To learn and adapt, you need to create and use a shared measurement system, engage in ongoing reflection and dialogue, and foster a culture of curiosity and innovation.

6 Celebrate and appreciate

Collective impact is a challenging and rewarding journey that requires hard work and dedication. Celebrating and appreciating the achievements and contributions of the partnership and its partners is important to sustain motivation, morale, and momentum. To celebrate and appreciate, you need to recognize and acknowledge the successes and efforts of the partnership and its partners, express gratitude and support, and create opportunities for fun and social interaction.

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?