About this training

The classic one-way communication model is not suitable for the proper management of current complex municipal issues (eg. climate and environment). Instead of mere information broadcasting such problems require two-way, service-oriented communication that is able to create networks and engage citizens to create impact. Without these, lasting change is not possible.

 

Theory

Practice

Our training presents tools for the latter approach. Our participants will gain knowledge not only on the theories of communication strategies but will also leave with a tried and tested communication plan tailored to their own projects and cities.

The Structure of the training

DAY 1

Theoretical foundations of modern communication

The key to successful communication is not one creative or clever idea but rather a comprehensive and system-wide approach. Built with a strategic mindset, our communication will not depend on outstandingly creative ideas or campaigns. Even if our team is not full of creative communication professionals, we can build a reliable system that brings results in a predictable way. On Day 1 we are going to cover the theoretical foundations of such strategy.

DAY 2

Groupwork: communication project planning

Participants work together on translating what they learned on Day 1 into concrete practical steps for their current or future projects. On Day 2 we are going to use best practices to demonstrate strategic planning and will also ideate on participants’ projects and help everyone draft their communication plan to be implemented in the coming weeks and months in their own municipalities.

DAY 3

Fine-tuning implementation

For a month following the first two training days the participants are to work on implementing what they learnt. The third day is scheduled after this implementation period. It starts with presentations, sharing questions and successes, discussing results and ends with fine-tuning the plans future communication activities. Participants can stay in touch after the training, share their questions and successes in a closed Climate Smart Elephant forum, so they will not be left without support even after the training.

Acquired skills

Our 3-day workshop-type training teaches key communication knowledge and skills relying on a creative co-creation approach. The focus is on 5 most important questions of communication: why, to whom, what, where and how to communicate to achieve the desired impact?

Strategic thinking 92%
Mapping target audiences 94%
Exploring communication channels 96%
Communication techniques 91%
Networking and fun atmosphere 100%

A more efficient team

The ultimate benefit of the training is not only participants finding solutions to their current communication tasks, but also that by mastering strategic communication thinking they will also be able to run their future projects more effectively. Most systems (be it parking, green space strategy, bee-friendly vegetation, etc.) are like elephants. Making them move can prove to be rather difficult but once we succeed, they can gain momentum and create huge impact. Proper communication not only helps making the elephant move, but can also keep it in the right direction.

More effective communication

A municipality often encounters disinterest. There are many ways to make communication more effective. Sometimes what brings results in further segmenting the target audience, other times it is finding a new channel, other times it is recomposing the message with the right psychological background knowledge, and there are times it is involving new stakeholders. The experimentation never stops. It only begins at our training.