Local governments play a vital role in our society, yet they’re often seen as inaccessible and bureaucratic. Using plain language in government communication can change this perception. Plain language is clear, concise, and easy to read. It’s inclusive, which means it reaches a wider audience. And it’s effective, which means it gets the message across.

Using plain language is a way to show respect for the people you serve. It is an important tool for engagement, and it can help build trust between the government and the community.

Local governments are responsible for providing many important services that keep our communities running smoothly. To do this effectively, you need to have strong community engagement.

Community engagement is important because it helps:

• You understand the needs and concerns of your community.
• Build credibility with the people you serve
• Lead to more effective and efficient government services
• Prevent and resolve conflicts

Many different community engagement strategies can be used. For example:

• Holding public meetings
• Surveying residents
• Creating citizen advisory committees

Whatever strategies are used, they must be designed to meet the specific needs of the community. These strategies are rooted in using everyday words. Here are four ways local governments can use plain language to engage communities:

For any initiative to be successful, the local community must share the same vision. Leaders need to be able to communicate their vision in a way that is clear and concise. After all, if you can’t explain your vision to others, how can you expect them to buy into it?

One of the best ways to communicate your vision is to use plain language. Plain language is not just for written communication. It should be used when speaking as well. This includes giving presentations, speaking on the phone, and talking to people in person.

When speaking, it’s important to:

• Use clear, concise, and direct language
• Avoid jargon, acronyms, and abbreviations.
• Use examples and analogies to explain complex concepts.

Using everyday words when communicating your vision will result in:

• Greater buy-in from the community because they understand your vision.
• Trust with the community because you explain how your organization can help.
• An increase in close involvement from the community in each initiative.

There are a lot of complex issues facing communities. But what does that mean for everyday people? Break down the issue and explain it in plain language. By doing this, you can help people understand the issues facing them and what they can do to make a difference.

There are many ways to listen to the community. Some ways are more effective than others. Below is a list of touchpoints that should be handled using everyday words. Avoid jargon or acronyms you might use if you were talking to a fellow government employee. Anticipate questions and learn how to answer them when:

• attending community events
• meeting with community leaders
• talking to people on the street
• conducting surveys
• holding focus groups

Engaging the community can help local government be more effective and efficient. When community members are involved in the decision-making process, they’re more likely to support the decisions that are made. Furthermore, community involvement can help to identify problems and potential solutions that may not be apparent to government officials.

When writing for the government, it’s important to use plain language. This includes writing memos, letters, reports, instructions, and any other type of document used to generate community involvement. Use short, simple sentences and familiar words. Avoid jargon, acronyms, and abbreviations. Be clear, concise, and direct.

Learn more

To learn more, check out The Center for Plain Language, The Plain Language Action and Information Network, The Plain Writing Act of 2010, The Plain Writing Act Implementation Guide, Community Engagement Matters (Now More Than Ever), and 5 Tested Community Engagement Strategies For Successful Social Change.

The reading level of this post is 8.3.