What do you do if senior stakeholders in temporary and contract work have unrealistic expectations?

ave a conversation with the stakeholders to clarify what their expectations are and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Take the time to meet with the senior stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations. Ask questions to clarify their goals and objectives for the temporary or contract work. This will help you gain insight into their motivations and enable you to tailor your approach accordingly.

If senior stakeholders in temporary and contract work have unrealistic expectations, it is important to manage those expectations by clearly communicating project goals and limitations, setting realistic timelines, and providing regular updates on progress. It may also be helpful to involve stakeholders in the planning process to ensure their expectations are aligned with project goals.

Clearly communicate the scope, limitations, and constraints of the temporary or contract work arrangement. Explain what can realistically be achieved within the given timeframe, budget, and resources. Use simple and concise language to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Manage expectatation early in the process, ensure these are shared before committing to using said stakeholder. Having potential stakeholders "apply" and present their expectations is a great way of choosing.

If the stakeholders' expectations are unrealistic, offer alternative solutions or approaches that are more feasible. For example, if they are expecting a project to be completed in an unrealistic timeframe, propose a phased approach with achievable milestones.

Clearly define the boundaries of the temporary or contract work arrangement. This includes specifying the scope of work, the expected deliverables, and any limitations or constraints. Establishing clear boundaries from the outset can help manage expectations and prevent misunderstandings later on.

Educate stakeholders about the nature of temporary and contract work, including its benefits and limitations. Help them understand the challenges involved in working within a temporary or contract arrangement, such as limited resources or time constraints.

Build trust with stakeholders by being transparent and honest in your communications. Keep them informed of any changes or challenges that may arise during the course of the work. By demonstrating your commitment to transparency, you can build trust and credibility with stakeholders.

In addition to the above steps, consider seeking feedback from other stakeholders or experts in the field. They may provide valuable insights and suggestions for addressing the unrealistic expectations. It may also be helpful to document the agreed-upon scope, deliverables, and timelines to avoid future misunderstandings.