Module 3 Initial Contact
!  During
this stage we make our first approach to the community. It is part of the immersion process that is a key element of the diagnostic process.
!  Here
we determine how we introduce ourselves and, as a result, how we are perceived.
Suggestions !  Identify
potential contacts: Ascertain your public based on the characteristics of the community in order to determine the best way to introduce the organization. Prepare the materials to be used, choosing the most appropriate language for initiating contact.
!  Be
sensitive to the time and activities of the people approached. Seek opportune moments to gain the person’s attention. It is advisable to request an appointment.
Key questions !
Who are we and where do we come from?: This helps us establish the trustworthiness and seriousness of our work.
!
Why are we here? What are we going to do?: Clearly communicate the reason for our visit, using simple, concrete and practical language. Thus we can achieve openness, create interest and obtain the necessary approval to carry out our work in the community.
!
Do we have your support to carry out our work?: Begin a relationship based on trust and formalize our involvement with the community.
How to begin the initial contact? !  The
key to the initial contact is to create trust and encourage the community to open their doors to us.
Introduction ! Briefly
talk about who we are and where we come from.
! Seek ! Be ! WE ! Be
to establish trust and openness.
concrete, clear and practical. ARE NOT A GOVERNMENT AGENCY. attentive to the mood of the spokesperson.
Explain why we came !
Explain the purpose of our visit and what we want to do.
!
Use simple language and avoid giving rise to false expectations.
!
Listen attentively, getting to know the speakers and allowing them to get to know us.
!
Appreciate the experience the representatives bring to the table.
Request permission to carry out a community diagnostic study ! Respect
the opinions expressed and avoid imposing our own.
! Be
open to the suggestions that may be offered.
! Thank
the person for their time and attention, regardless of their response.
It is vitally important to… !
Show a genuine, humble and unassuming attitude and real interest in what the person is saying.
!
Show interest in and respect for the experiences, values and traditions of the community.
!
Listen, but not to proffer opinions or solutions.
!
Be flexible when programming an introductory meeting.
!
Only begin work within a community once approval from the local authorities has been obtained.
!
Thank people for their time and their willingness to share information.