What I’ve learnt about engagement on big projects in my first year as a Communications & Engagement Officer at Mara

Engaging Communities: My Journey at Mara Consulting

I’m Grace.

I joined Mara Consulting as a Communication and Engagement Officer a little over eight months ago after finishing my Bachelor of Communication. This role was not on my radar after studying Journalism and Public Relations. However, it’s amazing how many skills have transferred from my degree into this industry.

Grace, Christine and Gabie door knocking for Rankin Park to Jesmond, Inner City Bypass.

Since joining #TeamMara, I’ve had the opportunity to work on community engagement for some major infrastructure and development projects. This experience has allowed me to put my communication skills to the test and learn many new things.

The Importance of Early Engagement

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is how much difference it makes when communities and stakeholders affected by these projects are engaged early in the process.

What stood out to me in different projects I've been involved with was how differently people responded when they felt included. Conversations became more open and less defensive. People felt heard, and we could take their concerns and suggestions on board.

When we take the time to listen, we don’t just collect feedback. We hear real stories, ideas, and lived experiences that can help shape a better project. Hearing those perspectives made me realise that engagement isn’t just about box-ticking. It’s about actively involving the community and stakeholders and genuinely improving engagement outcomes.

By involving people from the start, we can understand what matters most, spot potential issues early, and build genuine trust along the way. It’s a reminder that the best outcomes happen when all voices are part of the conversation. 🤝✨

My Top Tips for Effective Engagement

Here are my three engagement top tips:

1. Listen – This may sound like common sense, but too often, we are busy thinking about what we will say next. We don’t hear what people are telling us. So, keep those ears open and that mind quiet.

   
   

2. Be Human – Sometimes, connecting with someone on a personal level makes a world of difference during a difficult conversation. Are they concerned about habitat loss due to vegetation clearing? Are you an animal lover? Use your common interests to create a relationship and prove you’re not all talk.

   
   

3. Ask for Help – If things are going pear-shaped and you don’t feel equipped to handle the situation, don’t hesitate to seek support from your fellow teammates. I have learned so much from my colleagues and observed how they interact with communities and stakeholders. I know they’ve always got my back if I need a helping hand.

   
   

Lessons Learned

Hello to any other C&E newbies out there! What have you learned? What lessons can you share? If you’re Newcastle-based, feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn and catch up for a cuppa (or a hot chocolate in my case).

Need Help Engaging Communities?

If you have an SSD or project and need help to engage with communities, we can assist. If you’re looking to engage with communities and stakeholders effectively, get in touch to talk about how Mara Consulting can support your next project today.

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Author

Grace Clegg is an engagement and communications officer. She has a special skill for connecting with people and sharing their stories. Grace loves to write. Creating clear, engaging content and communication materials is her jam!

Connect with Grace:

E: grace@maraconsulting.com.au

P: 02 49654317

About Mara

Mara Consulting is a Newcastle based communications and stakeholder engagement consultancy specialising in planning approvals, community consultation, social impact assessment (SIA) and strategic communications for infrastructure, renewable energy and property development projects across NSW.