An Irishman, an Englishman and a Scotsman walk onto a stage…
This might sound like the cue for a joke, but the punchline hits harder than these three rugby titans.
The British and Irish Lions are a sporting enigma. Once every four years these sons – and sworn enemies – of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales unite to tour and take on rugby’s best around the globe.
This year it’s Australia’s turn – a once in 12-year event that sells out in minutes and brings in tens of millions of dollars from travelling fans.
Winning a Lions series is as close to rugby immortality as a player from Australia, New Zealand or South Africa can get.
But every hero needs a villain.
Enter, on a stage in the Queen Street Mall, the Irishman, the Pom and the Scot. Tadgh Furlong, Ollie Chessum and Scot Cummings fronted a signing session right in the heart of enemy territory.
After an hour and a half they walked away with a new legion of fans.
How?
Authentic community engagement. The players listened. Answered questions. Humanised themselves.
Told stories of growing up as a kid in rural Ireland, using goats for tackling practice and dreaming of emulating Israel Folau tearing up the park.
Dreaming of being the enemy – who does that?
Suddenly The Lions, a fierce enemy of the Antipodes, were tamed.
With a story.
The power of community engagement, where speaking from the heart and listening happen, can’t be underestimated for any organisation.
It breaks down barriers – real or perceived.
It opens the door for problem solving.
It can win respect and even a new band of supporters.
Done right, it can be the difference between the tryline or a punchline.
Now, for a drink with our Irish, Pommy and Scottish mates!
Three Plus adds genuine value to project teams through designing and delivering effective stakeholder engagement and consultation programs. We help clients’ projects proceed smoothly by building authentic understanding between different stakeholders, reducing risk and strengthening social licence.