7 Mistakes You're Making with Community Engagement (and How to Fix Them)

In my work, I see the same pattern over and over: community engagement is the backbone of effective public health, and small missteps can stall great work. Whether you're conducting a community needs assessment, implementing a strategic plan, or building ongoing relationships, a few avoidable mistakes can derail well‑intentioned efforts.

The good news: once you spot these patterns, you can turn stagnant outreach into steady, trusted participation that moves health outcomes.