• Be inclusive by encouraging the participation of all stakeholders who have an interest in or who would be affected by a decision. Seek to involve the "silent majority".
• Ensure transparency, openness and clarity in the provision of information to stakeholders. Where information is lacking, say so.
• Use a neutral convenor or independent facilitators to gain the confidence of stakeholders.
• Give engagement the priority it deserves.
• Be diverse and creative in the way you engage with different groups to ensure all parts of the community can participate.
• Be accountable. As soon as possible after the engagement period, respond to participants with an account of how and why their contributions have or have not influenced the outcome. Ensure there are routes for follow-up if required.
• Ensure there are enough resources to run the process in terms of time and money.
• Ensure there is a clear purpose to the engagement so all involved feel they have used their time well in getting involved. Ensure the process is evaluated to see where lessons can be learned for another time.