Reaching Others
Assuming a little knowledge, a lot of concern, and often a shared sense of overwhelm–how start up relationships with others on the issues they care most about–listening, empathizing, exploring, finding connections & common ground?
Awareness Campaigns
Efforts to inform the general public or targeted audiences about an issue new to them, usually with the intention of developing a general understanding, interest, concern or appeal, i.e. causing a particular reaction, or of motivating further inquiry, an action or development of a relationship
Climate Corners
Information tables, booths, tents etc. in public places that anyone can come up to for information, conversations, interviews etc. Differs from “tabling” in that tabling is usually associated with particular events and promoting particular positions, actions or organizations while “Climate Corners” are meant more to be of service to the public, a place to be heard and to get information.
General Presentations
Ample well-done publicity or “marketing”. Background explanations and/or advocacy to a general, undifferentiated audience, the “public” or “ordinary” audiences, i.e. those whose particular concerns or expertise are unknown to the presenter. These usually build on public issues, news items, controversies, common or recently emphasized needs, good news, stories or upcoming opportunities likely to be of general interest. Something of novelty, delight, or compelling concern is the “lead”, heavy on visuals, performance, music etc. in the “competition” for attention. Best of all the public involvement of a trusted figure of influence with a following.
Targeted Presentations
Explanations directed to specific audiences, usually on “their turf” and with Q&A, discussions or even planning or negotiating sessions to follow. Best done appealing to concerns and interests uppermost in the minds of the particular audience, appealing to their strengths, using “their” words and key terms, and promising benefits or the advancement of their mission, interests, etc. Planning presentation with or even co-presenting with trusted and respected members of the targeted community increases likelihood of attendance, engagement and buy-in to the desired response.
Casual Encounters
Opening a genuine conversation about the weather or what you’ve been up to or are excited about. Share what’s on your own mind on anything related to climate when it seems natural to do so and invite others to say what’s on theirs. Remember key facts or sources. Maybe have a leaflet, website or resource ready to hand. Not one-sided, or preachy or “know it all”–just openly curious.
Social Media
Find spaces focused on a given topic that either (a) is focused on the climate crisis or (b) on other topics but open to exploring what it means to their areas of interest, concern or passion, and–as they get to know you, share new ways of making sense of the climate crisis and connect them to promising solutions, strategies, campaigns, contacts or other great processes and resources