Build Relationships on Common Ground
Too often organizing is viewed as simply a way to get people to do something we want. It should not be surprising why some communities and organizers resist this disrespectful method. To lead, we must first build relationships of trust - and the ability to find common ground is the core of such relationships.
Common ground may be found in a number of ways - shared issues, interests, or values - but discovering that which is shared is essential. Let's tease out the difference between issues, interests, values and vision to know how they contribute to building common ground.
- Issues are the concerns that are important to us. There are many issues that motivate us - good jobs at decent wages, accessible childcare, safe communities, homes free from violence, and more. Often when we think of building a coalition and waging a campaign, they are centered on a specific issue.
- Interests speak to our stake in a particular outcome. Our interests are what we get out of the issue and what our personal connection to it is. For example, my issue may be increasing voter turnout in a given community, but my interest is different if I am a low-income resident of the area or a nonprofit advocate that works in the area. Coalitions are built among people who share a common issue, but who have different interests in that issue.
- Values are the core principles that motivate us to act. They often provide the deep motivation to act upon an issue. Values are many and varied, and might include a commitment to racial or economic justice or to love thy neighbor as thyself. Organizing around core values is different than organizing around shared issues or interests. One's issues and interests may shift and change over time, but values tend to be more unchanging.
As leaders, we must assess the issues, interests, and values of others to find a shared experience or goal. We are better agents of change if we understand what issues people care about, what their stake is in those issues, and what values motivate them to care.
Listen
While this may seem obvious, taking the time and consideration to listen to other folks is a quality of leadership that is often forgotten. Good listening is more than just waiting for your turn to talk; it means that as a leader, you take the time to ask what others think and respond to their answers.
While you might be the person in a position to lead, others may have much to contribute. By genuinely listening to the thoughts and concerns of others, those folks will be more likely to respond to you in the future. But more importantly, they will have a chance to see their ideas in action and develop their own leadership potential.