Creating Community

Photo by Matt Mechtley

One of the keys to creating a community is to create a sense of inclusiveness--to foster deep democracy (a term I learned at Scrum Gathering Vegas earlier this year).  Whether it's a community of practice, a user group, a team, or an organization, each member needs to feel like a valued member.  Safety and trust have to be present.

I think part of a community leader's role is like that of a stagehand--largely invisible and making sure the environment is right for the actors.  A community has its own identity, and a leader can shape it in a number of ways.  As an introvert, I try to create a place where all voices can be heard--not just the loudest, the smartest, or the funniest.  In fact, if the community leader is not attentive, the group dynamics can take a turn and drive people away.  The leader must be able to recognize the group's needs and interject as a facilitator to maintain the safety and trust for a healthy community to thrive.

How are you creating a strong community where people can be themselves?

Allison Pollard

Allison Pollard is a coach, consultant, and trainer who brings the power of relationship systems intelligence to go beyond tasks, roles, and frameworks to create energy for change. She engages with people and teams in a down-to-earth way to build trust and listen for signals to help them learn more and improve. Allison focuses on creating alignment and connection for people to solve business problems together. Her experience includes working with teams and leaders in energy, retail, financial, real estate, and transportation industries to help improve their project/product delivery and culture. Allison currently volunteers as program director for Women in Agile’s mentorship program. Her agile community focus is championing new voices and amplifying women as mentors and sponsors for the next generation of leaders. Allison earned her bachelor’s degrees in computer science, mathematics, and English from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. She is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC), a foodie, and proud glasses wearer. Allison is a prolific speaker at professional groups and international conferences, including Scrum Gatherings and the Agile Alliance Agile20xx conferences. Allison is co-owner of Helping Improve LLC.

http://www.allisonpollard.com
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Book Review: Emotional Intelligence 2.0