What Does a Public Engagement Consultant Do?

Public engagement is about building trust, sharing accurate information, and making space for public input that can influence decisions. So what does a public engagement consultant actually do?

Develops Engagement Strategies

Public engagement consultants create strategies that meet both legislative requirements and project goals. They work with clients to:

• Define engagement objectives

• Identify stakeholders and impacted groups

• Choose the right tools and tactics

• Align communications with policies or bylaws

These strategies guide how and when the public will be invited to participate.

Plans and Delivers Engagement Activities

Consultants coordinate the actual activities that bring the public into the conversation. This can include:

• Open houses or public meetings

• Workshops and focus groups

• Online surveys and digital engagement platforms

• One-on-one meetings with key stakeholders

• Pop-up booths or street team outreach

They handle logistics, prepare materials, and often serve as the public-facing facilitator.

Translates Complex Information

Most projects involve technical content that needs to be explained in plain language. Engagement consultants:

• Write accessible summaries of plans or proposals

• Create visual aids like maps, infographics, and boards

• Develop FAQs and backgrounders

• Support internal teams with briefings and speaking notes

This helps the public understand what is happening and why it matters.

Gathers and Reports Feedback

An important part of the role is collecting input and reporting it back accurately. Consultants:

• Design surveys and engagement tools

• Analyze comments and trends

• Summarize feedback for decision-makers

• Provide reports that document the process

These reports can be used to meet transparency standards or fulfill regulatory obligations.

Manages Issues and Risk

Engagement often uncovers concerns, conflict, or opposition. Consultants help:

• Identify issues early

• Track questions and complaints

• Respond to the public in a timely and respectful way

• Protect reputational risk for project owners

They act as a buffer between technical teams and the public to keep conversations focused and constructive.

Works Across Sectors

Public engagement consultants support a wide range of projects including:

• Municipal planning and policy

• Transportation and transit builds

• Environmental remediation

• Utility infrastructure

• Budget consultations

• Land use and zoning reviews

They adapt their approach to the needs of the project and the local community.

Why Hire a Consultant?

Internal teams are often stretched thin or lack engagement-specific training. A consultant brings structure, experience, and focus.

They offer:

• Neutral facilitation

• Third-party credibility

• Proven tools and templates

• Capacity during peak workloads

Hiring a consultant means your team can stay focused on delivery while someone else manages the public process.

Need Help With Public Engagement?

reVerb Communications provides experienced public engagement consultants who work in construction, infrastructure, and policy. We build strategies, facilitate dialogue, and report on outcomes.

Contact us if you need engagement support for your next project.