From Networking to PartneringJennifer Webb, Director of Community PartnershipsOffice of Community Engagement, USF

Why are we giving this presentation?

Feedback from Last Community-University Match-Up:

How do we stay connected?

How do we turn networking into partnerships?

“It seems like networking was the objective of the event, which is good, but how do we proceed to the next step? Or is that even desired?”

~Participant from Spring 2014

Partnerships Evolving from Last Event

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Type of Partnership

Number of Partner-

ships(total at-

tendees=27)

How’d they do it? (Akkermans & Romme

2008)

How’d they do it?

Signed up for our e-newsletter

Completed necessary forms – partnership request forms, BullSync profile, Employ-a-bull account

Composed compelling descriptions of volunteer or internship opportunities for the forms

Emailed us with intriguing research questions

Responded when faculty reached out/Contacted – via phone or email – community organizations.

Used our office for resources to help develop courses, find partners, and/or frame research questions

MOST IMPORTANTLY: They were ready to partner.

Wait…wait…a one time engagement does not a

partnership make!

Well, it could, if that is all that is sought or appropriate at the time. Let’s think in terms of levels:

Level 1: Limited Awareness of Each Other

Level 2: Limited Activities and Expectations

Level 3: Structured Involvement

Level 4: Joint Project Development

Level 5: Collaboration based on Risk and Resource Sharing (Schiebel, et al 2005)

Take Away Tips for Today

Partnering takes time, timeliness, and ongoing communication.

Begin by: Being clear and transparent about your goals

and interests Being open-minded and curious Reaching out to those whose contact info you

did receive

If your potential partners aren’t here, contact our office. We can help connect you.