How can you be more resilient when working with difficult stakeholders in Electrical Engineering?

1 Identify the source of difficulty

The first step to being more resilient is to understand why a stakeholder is being difficult. Is it because they have a different perspective, goal, or priority than you? Is it because they lack knowledge, skills, or resources to perform their role? Is it because they are under stress, pressure, or conflict? Or is it because they have a personal issue, bias, or agenda that affects their behavior? By identifying the source of difficulty, you can tailor your approach and response accordingly.

2 Empathize and listen

The second step to being more resilient is to empathize and listen to the difficult stakeholder. Try to put yourself in their shoes and see things from their point of view. Acknowledge their feelings, concerns, and needs, and show respect and interest. Ask open-ended questions and listen actively to understand their position, motivation, and expectation. By empathizing and listening, you can build rapport, trust, and understanding with the difficult stakeholder.

3 Communicate clearly and assertively

The third step to being more resilient is to communicate clearly and assertively with the difficult stakeholder. Use simple, concise, and accurate language to convey your message, and avoid jargon, ambiguity, and assumptions. Use facts, data, and evidence to support your arguments, and avoid emotions, opinions, and judgments. Use positive, constructive, and respectful feedback to address issues, and avoid criticism, blame, and defensiveness. Use "I" statements and express your needs, preferences, and boundaries, and avoid "you" statements and accusations. By communicating clearly and assertively, you can prevent misunderstandings, conflicts, and resentment with the difficult stakeholder.

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?