Michael waving hello. IMG_1191

Hi there!

Consider these tips when embarking on a new collaboration to tackle issues such as vision, strategy, planning, awareness, funding, new initiatives, operations, programs, recruitment, relationships, transition, and, well, really any project.

Know who we’re talking to:

Who are we trying to reach? Knowing our audience helps us figure out how to talk to them.

Understand our field:

What’s going on in our industry? Knowing this helps us make informed decisions.

Where we stand:

How do we fit in? What problem are we trying to solve? Knowing our place helps us figure out what to do next.

Face the problems:

Be honest about what’s hard. Ask what works and what doesn’t. Recognizing challenges helps us find ways around them.

Set clear goals:

What do we want to achieve? Having s.m.a.r.t. goals gives us something to aim for.

Make a plan:

How are we going to get there? What needs to be measured and analyzed? Having a clear plan helps us stay on track.

Stay in line with goals:

Make sure what we’re doing fits the big picture. Showing we’re in it for the long haul inspires others.

Set deadlines:

Give ourselves a timeline. Having a schedule keeps us moving and accountable.

Tell our story:

Why does our idea matter? Sharing our story helps people get behind what we’re doing.

Keep it exciting:

Focus on what gets us pumped. Remembering the cool parts helps us keep going.

Imagine winning:

Picture reaching our goal. Keeping that image in our heads helps us stay focused.

These principles work for a business or a charity. If you get stuck, think about who you’re talking to, what’s happening in your field, and where you want to go in that mix.

No matter who you are collaborating with- you got this!