A CSR Practitioner's Communication Practices in Engaging the Local Community in Watershed Conservation: An Autoethnography

Abstract

This study aimed to answer the following questions: What are the CSR practitioner’s communication practices in engaging the local community in watershed conservation and what are the underlying views and assumptions of the communication practices? By positioning himself as the primary subject, the researcher employed autoethnography to deeply explore his interactions and communication practices used to engage a local community. Autoethnography as a research framework and methodology not only allows for an in-depth and reflective examination of his personal experiences but also provides a rich, nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in community engagement.

The research methodology included gathering and review of the CSR practitioner’s personal journals during the implementation of the project from 2022- 2023, as well as a thorough review of related literature.

Thematic analysis was employed to identify and explore recurring themes and provide insights into the patterns of his engagement with the local community. His journals were classified into two vignettes which included his communication practices when in project implementation and when the community is in conflict.

Four communication practices during project implementation emerged in the analysis of data: engaging and empowering community leaders, integrating the local community’s wisdom and traditions; engaging the community in a long-term partnership; and recognizing literacy constraints. Each of these practices is made up of sub-practices, including:

● Sharing roles and responsibilities with the community ● Letting the community lead the completion of the project ● Including local voices in decision-making ● Inviting community leaders to educate employees and stakeholders ● Being mindful of local customs and traditions ● Respecting hierarchical structures ● Using the local language ● Involving community members in the storytelling process ● Bridging the language barrier ● Visiting the community to personally connect ● Immersing in the local community

The findings from this study can inform more effective CSR communication practices and contribute to the growing body of research on the role of communication in fostering successful community engagement and partnerships in sustainability initiatives.