How can you improve client and stakeholder communication?

1 Know your audience

Before you communicate with your clients and stakeholders, you need to understand who they are, what they want, and how they prefer to communicate. You can do this by conducting some research, asking questions, and listening to their feedback. You should also tailor your communication style and content to suit their level of knowledge, interest, and personality. For example, some clients and stakeholders may want more details and data, while others may prefer a brief and concise summary. Some may respond well to visuals and stories, while others may prefer facts and figures.

2 Plan your communication

Planning your communication means setting clear goals, choosing the right channels, and preparing the relevant information. You should also anticipate potential questions, objections, or concerns that your clients and stakeholders may have and prepare your responses accordingly. You should also consider the timing, frequency, and tone of your communication, as well as the cultural and ethical implications. For example, you may want to communicate more often and more formally with a new client than with an existing one, or you may want to avoid using jargon or slang with a foreign stakeholder.

3 Deliver your communication

Delivering your communication means expressing your message clearly, confidently, and respectfully. You should also use appropriate body language, eye contact, and voice modulation to convey your professionalism and enthusiasm. You should also check for understanding, ask for feedback, and confirm the next steps. You should also avoid common communication pitfalls, such as interrupting, dominating, or dismissing your clients and stakeholders, or making assumptions, generalizations, or exaggerations.

4 Follow up your communication

Following up your communication means keeping your clients and stakeholders informed, engaged, and satisfied. You should also keep track of your communication activities, such as emails, calls, meetings, and reports, and document the key points, decisions, and actions. You should also deliver on your promises, meet your deadlines, and address any issues or concerns promptly. You should also seek feedback, evaluate your communication effectiveness, and identify areas for improvement.

5 Adapt your communication

Adapting your communication means being flexible, responsive, and empathetic to the changing needs, expectations, and situations of your clients and stakeholders. You should also be open to new ideas, perspectives, and feedback, and be willing to adjust your communication style and content accordingly. You should also be aware of the potential barriers, challenges, and risks that may affect your communication, such as misunderstandings, conflicts, or crises, and be prepared to overcome them.

6 Enhance your communication

Enhancing your communication means learning new skills, tools, and techniques that can help you communicate better with your clients and stakeholders. You should also seek opportunities to practice, improve, and refine your communication skills, such as attending training, workshops, or coaching sessions, or joining online communities or networks. You should also keep up to date with the latest trends, developments, and best practices in your field and industry, and share your insights and expertise with your clients and stakeholders.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?