It's time to start recruiting people you trust to help you implement all your plans. Your PR Team members will help you write media materials, contact reporters, design banners and flyers, and plan a festive post-build celebration. Keep in mind that each of these tasks requires very different skills - for example, someone who writes well may not feel comfortable speaking to the media, and vice versa. A wide variety of skills will make your team stronger. Team members should also be positive and energetic, and they should have a strong belief in the project. Aim for three to five regular volunteers, and be sure to reach out to diverse segments of the community.
Team meetings Budget and timeline Tips and progress
The next step is to propose a regular schedule for PR team meetings. This may be something to discuss when recruiting your members. How often would you like to meet? Where and for how long? Do your volunteers have potential scheduling conflicts? Do they need childcare? Does anyone have long vacations planned? Be thoughtful and considerate toward your team members' other commitments; they'll thank you for it!
Once you have team goals, a plan, and a few loyal volunteers recruited, it's time to get down to work. A first meeting sets the tone for your entire project, so try to be professional, organized and energetic. Show up on time, prepare a clear meeting agenda, and set a time limit for each item. Oh, and don't forget about the fun! Remind your team of the joys of play and they'll carry that energy back to the community. Here are some topics that you might want to address at your first PR Team meeting:
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Because you're not responsible for any fundraising, you'll need to talk to your co-chair(s) and fundraising captain about the budget for your team. Overhead costs such as printing, advertising and t-shirts should have been figured into the overall project budget, but it's up to you to determine your team's needs, allocate funds, and price out materials in your area. Use this worksheet to get your money matters in order, and use this to create a timeline.
As a project leader, you simply can't do everything alone. That's why you have team members! A large part of your job will be to motivate, instruct, advise and help others as they implement your plan. Remember that delegating responsibility usually enhances a project, because jobs get done by people who have a special skill in that area. It also helps everyone practice their management skills and get more out of the project. This, in turn, will improve performance and make for a truly "community-built" playspace.
Being a productive leader also means keeping meetings on track and managing time wisely! Hone your team captain skills with these simple tips:
First, use this checklist of large tasks here. Check in with your team on a regular basis and constantly evaluate your success, adjusting your strategy as you find out what works. It's also not too late to come up with new ideas! Energize your troops with fresh brainstorming sessions and attention-getting stunts. Here are a few questions to gauge your progress:
Review of early goals
Media coverage
Community interest
Donor recognition/the ribbon-cutting ceremony
Team spirit