It’s All About Community.....Perception Rural Community College Alliance Prescott, Arizona Thursday, September 25, 2014

How the community perceives any organization is directly proportionate to how successful that organization can be.

Developing A Positive Community Perception Requires Wearing Several Different Hats 1)Politician – Developing community relations at all times. 2)Policy Maker – Inspiring your educational institution to make change. 3)Cheerleader – Taking time to inspire others. 4)Fund Raiser – Identify methods of acquiring financial support. 5)Media Spokesman – Getting the organization in front of the camera. 6)Program Developer – Constantly focusing on programs which involve others.

As the Leader of your Organization: 1)You must lead with authority and confidence. 2)Be prepared to make “Tough Decisions.” 3)Accept the role of being an integral part of the community. 4)Practice being an advocate for the less fortunate in your community. 5)When faced with a negative circumstance, “own it”; these are your opportunities to reveal true qualities of leadership.

NOTE: Crisis Intervention is often required as a direct result of individuals not forthcoming with important information.

Why are individuals reluctant to share negative information? 1)They want to protect the organization from embarrassment. 2)They often choose to “fix” the situation themselves. 3)They do not want to burden the Administration with “interferences.” 4)They do not recognize the magnitude of the issue. 5)They are often frightened about possible consequences.

To reduce the reluctancy of sharing negative information: 1)Encourage an open door policy, free of repercussions. 2)Provide methods of “anonymity reporting.” 3)Include organizational policies, which encourage communication up and down the chain of command. 4)Promote a culture based upon sound ethical values and practices.

Continue Your Commitment to Support a Positive Community Image 1)Assume Cultural Leadership 2)Discuss Your Image 3)Review Policies/Procedures 4)Adopt Best Business Practices 5)Train and Listen to Future Leaders 6)Develop Relationships with the Media and Law Enforcement 7)Develop a Social-Media Strategy

Assume Cultural Leadership 1)Find ways to personally become engaged with community groups and activities. 2)Hold yourself and others accountable.

Discuss Your Image 1)Organizations comprise a % Ratio. 2)Challenge your staff to look closely at what makes a success. 3)Identify areas of your organization that need improvement. 4)Develop ideas to move forward. 5)Recruit individuals who fit the identity of your organization. 6)Solicit suggestions from the community; consider surveys. 7)Remember: People don’t care what you know, until they know you care.

Review Policies/Procedure 1)Establish policy that requires a higher standard of conduct and professionalism. 2)Provide training to ensure everyone is aware of expectations and the consequences for not meeting them.

Adopt Best Business Practices 1)Collect and analyze data to scan for trends and opportunities, and to lay a foundation for a potential change. 2)Welcome ideas from your staff. 3)Build relationships with local leaders and businesses. 4)Be sure to let people know when you’ve made an important change. 5)Conduct a threat assessment to protect your organizational culture.

Train and Listen to Future Leaders 1)Provide leadership development and mentoring opportunities. 2)Encourage emerging leaders to contribute to other aspects of the community.

Develop Relationships with the Media and Law Enforcement 1)Being seen as a trusted source of information for the media, means you are seen as a trusted source of information for the public. 2)Make it a habit of being in front of the media at each and every opportunity. 3)Having a close affiliation with law enforcement allows you to be ahead of any developments which might affect your organization.

Develop a Social-Media Strategy 1)The question is no longer “Should we do social media?”; the question is: “Are we doing it right?” 2)Develop a strategy that puts your organization in a proactive position, rather than merely reacting to what others are saying.

Final Thought: If the college is performing at a high level of success, the community it supports will always do the same.

Sheriff Scott Walton Rogers County, OK Sheriff’s Office 200 S. Lynn Riggs Blvd. Claremore, OK (Office)