A common mistake made in project execution, whether it’s an ongoing program or a service contract, is that people tend to “disguise” or omit to tell the truth. So to remedy the situation, the first thing is to bring transparency. What has gone wrong, why, and how do we fix it. The second thing is to break down the steps to getting back on track to the smallest denominator. Stakeholders like to see progress, even if it’s small incremental progress. Having the ability to show that the recovery is underway even if it’s small is important. Once you have transparency and a plan, keep constant communication channels with all the parties. Communication will help everyone. You’re now back on a track to gaining that trust again. Good luck!

When a project crisis strikes, keeping stakeholders' trust requires transparency, empathy, and solutions. First, I level with them—acknowledging the issue openly, including its root cause and impact. I find this honesty keeps confidence intact; after all, as the saying goes, “Trust is earned in drops and lost in buckets.” Next, I focus on solutions, presenting a clear plan to resolve the issue and steps to avoid repeat setbacks. Finally, I set realistic expectations by revising timelines and deliverables, committing to keep them in the loop. It’s about showing resilience and reliability when it counts most.

When planning your project timeline, be sure to schedule regular updates to keep everyone informed of your progress. Use these updates as an opportunity to be transparent about the project's current status and any challenges you may have encountered. If an issue arises, take responsibility and proactively share your plan to address it, or seek input to develop a solution. Stakeholders will appreciate your honesty and proactive approach far more than discovering issues too late due to a lack of communication.

When a project faces turbulence, think of it as navigating a stormy sea. Transparency acts as a lighthouse, guiding stakeholders through the fog of uncertainty. Share not just the challenges, but also the crew's strategies for recalibrating the ship—creative solutions and collaborative brainstorming can transform anxiety into empowerment. Regular updates become the reassuring rhythm of the waves, reminding everyone that, together, you’ll weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

Unfortunately, too many people take the "cover up" or "avoidance" approach. I've found that it's always better to get ahead of it rather than end up on my heels in those moments. It helps to find a trusted partner within the stakeholder community to bring them along in advance of the communication. They will often help to soften the response and create an openness to alternative solutions among the group.