Yoda once said, “Only a fully-trained Jedi Knight, with the Force as his ally, will conquer Vader and his Emperor.”
While your projects don’t have to contend with Darth Vader, or the Emperor, finding the right allies makes galaxies of difference to ensure a project’s success.
Stakeholders exist at many levels within the organization, whether directly involved with your project, or merely affected by its activities or outcome. The key is to actively seek out and forge alliances with the ones who are respected, influential and have the authority to make decisions.
The question is, how do you engage stakeholders when they have multiple priorities and you need their support?
Convert your stakeholders into true believers; they can be the key to moving mountains with ‘The Force.’ Do this by providing them regular information, showing team successes, involving them in team roadblocks, and building the trust needed so they empower you to be successful.
Key Takeaways:
- Identify stakeholders that have the authority to make decisions
- Get to know stakeholders personally; learn about their vision and challenges
- Build trust by sharing your team’s successes and challenges
- Keep stakeholders informed with information targeted to address their needs