What are effective ways to build relationships and networks while working in NGOs and civil society abroad?

#1. Be genuinely invested in the outcomes your program is aiming to achieve, not just in the cultural experience, adventure and perks that come with the job. #2. If you’re an expat, be aware of ‘white privilege’, and seek to hold your local colleagues in equal esteem including standing up for them when situations call for it. You will build genuine and more productive relationships this way. #3 If you have expertise in particular aspects of the work, seek to mentor your local colleagues , especially the young and up coming professionals, share your knowledge and skills. Leave a mark in someone’s life! #4 invest in strengthening you local partners’ systems and process rather than in doing the work others can do, this is more sustainable.

Our love for humanity is key when we work for an NGO or set up one. Social inequalities are what we have on our minds and how to eradicate what we see in the community of interest in joining or creating civil organizations. Both are aimed at the betterment of the target society and not our fame. Sincerity of purpose and not being political is a great key to grow your network and influences and it happens over time when trust is built and sincerity of purpose is seen. Respect the social values of the community is key. Have a heart to learn and unlearn. Have a listening ear and be focused. Service to humanity is a thankless job. If you are appreciated by the people you serve, that is great if they don't , keep doing your assignment.

Well one has to be active and must participate in every activity that is based on a positive vibes. One should interact and penetrate with local issues so that its best possible action plan can be executed. Else must celebrate your small successes and highlight them so that every one can be motivated

Given my expertise in the Gender Equality field, to make the desired change by a society it needs to come from them first. But, resources play a major role to identify the agenda priorities, therefore and in order to balance between the donors’ priorities and the society’s one, any desired program should kick of intersectional analysis before the planing phase to understand the power dynamics within a given eco-system and decide accordingly the must powerful entry point for change and impact.

You should take the initiative to learn more about the problems, opportunities, and challenges that your industry and your target audience are facing. Together with your coworkers, partners, beneficiaries, and stakeholders, you should participate in or create chances for networking, socializing, and volunteer work.

I agree and therefore organization should be providing their employees with diplomacy skills and safeguarding knowledge that ensure doing no harm to a given society.

First, mix your passion for the cause with a good dose of open communication. Add a pinch of networking at events, because that's where you meet the most varied spices! Don't forget to share your knowledge; it's like sharing your favorite dish, it creates lasting friendships. Use social networks to keep in touch, just as you would with a good dish. And above all, be authentic; after all, no one likes a dish that lacks original flavor! By following these steps, you'll create a network of relationships as rich and tasty as an international buffet. Bon appétit... ?????, I mean, happy networking! ???

When communicating with your local counterparts, it is important to be mindful of the following: Use clear, concise, and respectful language. Avoid jargon, slang, or idioms that may not be understood or appreciated. Be direct and to the point, but avoid being blunt or insensitive. Be aware of the power dynamics, sensitivities, and conflicts that may exist among different groups or individuals. Avoid language that could be perceived as patronizing or condescending. Be careful not to take sides or get involved in local politics.

Use Social Media: Leverage social media platforms to connect with local and international professionals. LinkedIn, for instance, is an excellent tool for networking. Local Language Proficiency: If you're in a foreign country, learning the local language can significantly enhance your networking efforts by enabling better communication and rapport building. Attend Conferences and Summits: Participate in international and local conferences and summits related to your field. These events provide platforms for networking with experts and fellow professionals.

When you have nothing to hide, and no ulterior motives, why would you not practice openness? Collaboration and cooperation is how teams deliver results. Otherwise one team member can negate the good efforts of others. Respecting other's roles and acknowledging their successes is part of building bonds that make for great teams and collaboration through cooperation. The lifeblood of team synergies.

Add a pinch of networking at events, because that's where you meet the most varied spices! Don't forget to share your knowledge; it's like sharing your favorite dish, it creates lasting friendships. Use social networks to keep in touch, just as you would with a good dish. And above all, be authentic; after all, no one likes a dish that lacks original flavor! By following these steps, you'll create a network of relationships as rich and tasty as an international buffet. Enjoy your food ... ??, I mean, happy networking! ???

here are many benefits to collaborating and cooperating with others: Synergy: When different organizations and individuals work together, they can achieve more than they could on their own. This is because they can share resources, knowledge, and ideas. Efficiency: Collaboration and cooperation can help to avoid duplication of effort and make better use of limited resources. Innovation: When people from different backgrounds with different perspectives work together, they can come up with new and innovative solutions to problems. Impact: Collaboration and cooperation can help to amplify the impact of NGO and civil society work.

Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor or coach who is experienced in the local context. They can guide you in building relationships and navigating cultural nuances. Show Genuine Interest: Take a sincere interest in the local culture, customs, and the people you work with. Demonstrating respect and understanding can help you form meaningful connections. Collaborate with Local Influencers: Identify local influencers or community leaders who can introduce you to relevant networks and provide insights into the local landscape.

Maintain Professionalism: Maintain a high level of professionalism and integrity in your work. Trust and credibility are essential for building long-term relationships. Organize Workshops and Training: Consider organizing workshops or training sessions. Being a resource for knowledge and skill-sharing can help you connect with others in your field.

There are many ways to engage and participate, including: Learn about the issues, challenges, and opportunities that affect your field and your target group. This includes reading books and articles, attending workshops and conferences, and talking to people who are experts in the field. Join or create opportunities for networking, socializing, and volunteering with your colleagues, partners, beneficiaries, and stakeholders. This could include attending community events, participating in social media groups, or volunteering your time to help with a local project.

One of the greatest asset anyone aspiring or working in the in NGO space can have is flexibility and adaptability. This can be apply in all areas including learning news skills, languages, culture and norms. Traveling is one of the most challenging areas for women who are pregnant or nursing toddlers. One thing thats is important is to ensure that before getting involved in any NGO ensure that their policy for taking care of women are in consonance with your requirement. Lastly, flexibility and adaptability will help you navigate the most difficult terrains.

Dress modestly especially with quality of attire and accessories within the knowledge base of your audience. I refer to restrict use of flashy, expensive, branded, new items when in the field. Try to match their appearance and honor their culture.

There are many reasons why flexibility and adaptability are so important: Uncertainty and change: The world is constantly changing, and NGOs need to be able to adapt to new challenges and opportunities. For example, an NGO working in a developing country may need to adjust its programs in response to a natural disaster or a political crisis. Diversity: NGOs work with a wide range of people from different backgrounds and cultures. NGOs need to be able to be respectful and tolerant of different ways of working, thinking, and behaving.

Being ethical and professional is a basic way of life, irrespective of the type of organisation you work for -- its how you lead your life. Integrity in decision-making and above all self-assessment and holding yourself to account is core -- before you point fingers at others (which you should never do in any case), see if you have earned that right. Being courteous, respectful and polite may not have as much value in organisations as it once used to -- but to me its an indicator of how much you care for people you work with -- and this is where you draw passion from people -- and passion leads to excellence -- not material rewards or physical benefits.

If amateur (ham) radio is considered as an NGO/civil activity, my position always includes performing best and professional. As a long-term visiting lecturer, I always try to do my best to satisfy my hosts' needs. Among them are additional lectures for students even on the day when my flight back is scheduled (of course, if there is enough time for that). So, that additional effort is always welcomed and positively memorized by my hosts. That increases chances to be invited for another visit.

In order to build effective networks in the third sector (as External Public Affairs Lead) I would remark: #1. Strategic Thinking and Planning a) Visionary Leadership b) Long-term Planning #2. Deep Understanding of the Political Landscape #3. Effective Communication Skills a) Public Speaking and Writing b) Negotiation and Advocacy #4. Stakeholder Management a) Building Relationships b) Networking and Collaboration #5. Analytical Skills a) Policy Analysis b) Data Interpretation #6. Cultural Competence a) Cultural Awareness b) Language skills #7. Crisis Management a) Risk Assessment b) Crisis Communication method/s #8. Leadership and Team Management #9. Ethical Standards and Integrity #10. Adaptability (flexibility) and Resilience