Engagement expectations

Manage your expectations about the engagement.

• An initial contact may be about building relationships. This can take time and requires an openness and learning on your part.
• The pace of the discussions may not be as fast as you may want. Ensure that you provide the space and time to the Indigenous modern treaty holder to share.

Note that not all Indigenous peoples who are modern treaty holders communicate in the same way. Take time to learn.

If you make a mistake at any point during the engagement, “own” your mistake and be humble.

You will probably come with a specific mandate. You will need to be ready to explain, for example, why there may not be any alternatives or, if there is a delay, why you need to take the matter internally. Be upfront about the machinery of government, whom you’re talking to, and where the blockage is.

All of these steps will help to build a productive relationship with the Indigenous modern treaty holder.

Keep in mind that engagements are also an important way for you to learn about what the Indigenous modern treaty holder needs so you can bring it to your colleagues and superiors in the Federal Government to educate and inform them.