Rebuilding unity: collaboration after a divisive election
Local government elections in Victoria have concluded and election results are out. What this means is that the newly elected Councillors in Councils across Victoria will be coming together soon to be sworn in and then they have to get down to the nitty gritty business of good governance which requires collaboration!
Election campaigning can be tough—especially when they become contentious and divisive. The process of campaigning often leaves behind bruised egos, strained relationships, and a fragmented council. Now that the election is over, newly elected and re-elected councillors face the challenge of putting differences aside to work effectively for their community.
It’s time to hit the reset button. Successful councils recognize that while campaigns are driven by competition, governance demands collaboration. For newly seated councillors, establishing trust and a sense of shared purpose is crucial. Without it, policy discussions may devolve into personal attacks or gridlock, preventing real progress.
So, where do we start?
Find Common Ground: Begin with shared priorities. What are the pressing issues your community is facing? Whether it's planning, infrastructure, or public safety, identifying mutual goals helps shift the focus away from past conflicts and toward collective action.
Open Dialogue: Foster an environment where open, respectful conversations are encouraged. Setting up initial meetings to discuss how to best communicate and resolve disagreements can lay the groundwork for a healthy working dynamic.
Commit to Civility: The tone set at the start of a term often carries forward. Councillors who model civility, even in the face of disagreement, contribute to a healthier, more productive council culture. Emphasizing shared values, such as accountability, respect, and transparency, strengthens relationships and builds trust.
Leverage Diverse Perspectives: Remember, diversity of thought can lead to more creative and effective solutions. Councillors can achieve better outcomes by viewing differences as a strength rather than a source of division.
In the end, collaboration doesn’t mean abandoning your principles—it means finding a way to advance them in a manner that benefits the whole community. By focusing on unity and mutual respect, councillors can turn the page on a divisive campaign season and work together to achieve positive outcomes for those they serve.
Take the Next Step Toward a Collaborative Council
Building collaboration in a divided Council requires skill, patience, and leadership. If you’re looking for tailored support, our coaching and training services can help.
We offer:
Conflict management workshops tailored for Councils.
Conflict management coaching for Mayors and Deputy Mayors to navigate difficult conversations and foster collaboration.
By investing in professional development, you can create a team that works together to serve your community effectively.
💡 Learn more: https://www.lgconflictmanagement.com/
💡 Book a consultation: https://www.lgconflictmanagement.com/contact-us or email me at annemarie@annemariecade.com for more information.
For more insights on how to "Cut the Conflict in Council" listen to my podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/6CKK3UyjJDLoXEuvPgRkyo?si=9a42d3d8168145de
Let’s work together to transform division into unity and build a legacy of collaborative leadership in your Council.
