What not to do:

What to do instead:

Use jargon

Whether you are a planner, engineer, building official, or any other type of municipal worker, you have words that you use to communicate within your field. However, people outside your field may not understand these terms or acronyms. When you use jargon, you cut people out of the conversation or make it harder for them to understand what you mean.

Use clear and concise language

Rather than use a technical term or acronym, instead use a few words to explain what you’re talking about. If you are think your language may be unclear, ask someone – a co-worker, friend or family member – outside of your field if they understand what you are talking about.

Trigger negative emotions

Climate change and related impacts can be very emotional. Residents who lived through severe storms, such as Hurricane Sandy, may be upset seeing post-storm images, watching video from the storm or its aftermath, or hearing dramatic retellings of the storm or recovery. Additionally, when talking about long-term impacts related to climate change, be careful about using language intended to provoke strong emotions or fear. When you trigger these negative emotions, you may end up causing people to leave the conversation and not return, or you may trigger people to act in ways other than how you intended.

Keep emotions in check

Use clear and neutral language. Check in with those with whom you are communicating to find out where they are emotionally. Take breaks. Acknowledge the emotional struggle. Be emotionally accessible yourself, and be aware of how the images you use may affect perception of risk and danger.

Assume everyone shares the same values

Climate change and resilience, at their core, become topics about personal values and beliefs. It’s critical not to assume everyone shares the same values and beliefs. It’s also critical not to dismiss others because they don’t share the same values and beliefs as you do.

Learn about your audience

Find out what others think and try to put yourself in their shoes. This can be during a public engagement session, in small group conversations, talking to your neighbors, or even making presentations to community groups. You can use instant polling technology, or even ask others to share their thoughts. Ask people why they believe what they believe. This may help you understand where they are coming from and, in turn, help you frame the conversation to meet their needs. By keeping the conversation in check with their values, you show respect for those you are communicating with and, in turn, help build mutual trust.