Ground Rules for Effective Outreach

for listening well and to be listened to.

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1. Show civility and respect. 

2. Be amiable.  Be neutral, especially about politics.  Be constructive.

3. Listen more than talk; listen to understand. 

   • What people know and understand varies a great deal.

   • Ironically, many view the political and governmental dysfunctions as normal.  It has been entrenched for decades now.  Similarly, many don't expect resolution is possible.  Listening well enables you to understand their perspective and what information they need to hear to change it as needed.

   • No Labels ideas and ideals can be very unexpected for many.

4. Be positive, especially with negatives; look for the silver lining.

   • Negatives often provide our best learning experiences.

5. Expect negative reactions, but don't be one.

   • Diverse opinions and disagreement is normal.  These are essential to diligence, and to solving problems well; they cause a process that ensures many ideas are considered.  They are essential to our government's success, as well.  The U.S. is the oldest existing democracy at 243 years and counting because we have rules of decorum with which we settle our issues as a democracy.

6. Enjoy the experience - be the change you want to see in the world.

7. Uncertain you can do 1-6?  Act it out beforehand.  Practice neutral voice and body language.  Argue with yourself!