GENERATION ‘US’
BY TOM MATT
Who is in your community?
In challenging times, being part of a community can make a difference
W
e live in challenging times! Communities provide support, connection, and relief. They allow the most powerful unit, the small group, to accomplish things together. Within a community, people feel comfortable celebrating when they reach common goals. Communities help people feel like they belong, that they have a voice, that their actions matter. Those feelings are powerful on an average day. Amid challenging circumstances, they can be the glue that holds fast, keeping your brand and audience together and working to a common goal. Before you can start conversations and help facilitate connections, which could ultimately turn into your community, you need to know your audience. Ask yourself: Who does your community include? Is it a family or work team? Why are they important? What are some of the challenges? What methods of communication do they prefer? Next, identify your community’s goals. Once you have a clear picture of the people that comprise your commu-
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“One of the marvelous things about community is that it enables us to welcome and help people in a way we couldn’t as individuals.” - Jean Vanier nity, use that insight to collaboratively develop strategic goals. Who can you tap from the community to be their voice in this conversation? What information do they need or what do they want to accomplish? Why? And how can you help? Then start the conversation. By understanding your audience and what you hope to achieve, you can create ways to converse, share, and engage. I like to leverage all modes of media, specifically radio/podcasts, books, and magazine articles. What and how do YOU want to
share your story, the big HOW. Remember that connections are powerful tools for health and vitality. Leverage communications tools and friendships to your maximum. Consistency is key to successful community building. Think of it this way: you cannot simply start a conversation and then walk away. Try these to build your momentum! • Identify your strengths • How do you fit your strengths into the community’s needs • Effort is the key to accomplishments • Choice + Challenge = Change
Tom Matt is the host of the “Tom Matt Show,” a radio talk show syndicated in Michigan on the Michigan Talk Network. He can be heard locally Saturday mornings on the ‘Big Talker’ WJIM 1240 AM. For more info please visit www.boomersrock.us
