Acknowledge and Apologize: Start by acknowledging their feelings and apologizing for any unintentional offense. A sincere apology can go a long way in mending relationships. Active Listening: Give the stakeholder your undivided attention. Actively listen to their concerns without interrupting. This demonstrates empathy and understanding. Seek Clarification: Ask open-ended questions to gain a deeper understanding of their perspective. This will help you identify the root cause of their dissatisfaction. Take Responsibility: If you made a mistake, own up to it. Avoid making excuses or blaming others. Taking responsibility shows integrity and professionalism.

When a stakeholder feels slighted, act promptly. Call or meet in person to address the issue with empathy. Acknowledge their feelings, sincerely apologize if needed, and avoid excuses. Focus on solutions and improvements to prevent future issues. Taking responsibility builds trust and strengthens the relationship.