You're at odds with colleagues on engaging youth for community outreach. How do you find common ground?

Understanding your colleagues' views is essential for finding common ground in community outreach efforts. Start by actively listening to their concerns and ideas about engaging youth. They may offer valuable experience or insights that could help shape a more effective strategy. Encouraging open dialogue fosters a collaborative environment where every voice is heard and respected. This mutual understanding not only builds trust but also lays the foundation for a unified approach that integrates the strengths and contributions of each team member.

One can never underestimate a coalition of allies for getting things done and instituting change. If your view is truly a good one, you will find allies who can find allies, and thereby change the consensus.

Summing up an overview of how I approach these scenarios: -Argue against your point and in favor of theirs (can be done upon reflection) -Know that you could be wrong about some of the ideas you are most passionate about -Reward radical candor where you challenge each other directly but care deeply. -Ask lots of questions when sharing ideas and concerns.

After understanding each other's perspectives, collaborate to identify shared goals for your youth outreach program. Determine the key outcomes you all want to achieve, such as increasing youth participation in community projects or fostering leadership skills among young people. Having common objectives helps you move past differences and focus on the strategies that will drive you toward those goals.

Leveraging the unique strengths of each team member is crucial for enhancing your youth engagement strategy. Identify who excels in areas like event organization, social media engagement, or community connections, and assign tasks accordingly. By recognizing and utilizing these strengths, you not only boost the effectiveness of your outreach efforts but also cultivate a sense of value and appreciation among your colleagues.

I always ask for ways to incorporate the youth. It's hard living in rural area where you can't get parents to bring there kids. I am the only person that works at the library. People that come in a volunteer sometimes, I ask for there input. If it works with what we trying to do. I always give them the credit, for there ideas and helping it to be a success.