Recruit a multidisciplinary and multifunctional team representing the relevant expertise and organizational functions (this might include managers, project staff with local knowledge, marketing professionals, government and corporate relations professionals, natural scientists, social scientists, and philanthropy staff). Include individuals from major stakeholder groups and partner organizations on the team especially if these partners will be needed to implement strategies. Expect to make some changes to team composition throughout the process, as different skillsets become more/less important for completing the work.
Always aim for gender equity and multi-racial/multicultural inclusion. Be sure you include expertise to help the team assess primary interests for people and nature, gender equity integration, and, where appropriate, the interests of indigenous peoples and local communities. You may need external partners or colleagues to help you fill in the gaps.
The Nature Conservancy’s Gender Equity Statement, Leveraging Difference Model, and Inclusive Group Norms Worksheet are all helpful tools for building diversity on teams.