Stakeholder Playbook: How to Entertain, Engage, and Excel with External Partners

Handling external stakeholders might sound like a high-stakes game of diplomatic chess, but don’t worry—it's not as complicated as it seems! Let’s turn the dry, formal steps into a more engaging journey with a sprinkle of humour. Buckle up and enjoy this guide to wrangling your stakeholders!?

• Identify Stakeholders?

First things first: Who are these “stakeholders” you speak of? Think of them as the various characters in your reality TV show. They could be customers, clients, suppliers, partners, regulators, community groups, or even that guy who always wears Hawaiian shirts at the office. Know your cast before you roll the camera.?

• Prioritize Stakeholders?

Not everyone will be knocking on your door with a golden ticket. Some stakeholders are like the main characters in your show—vital to the plot. Others might be the quirky sidekicks or occasional cameo appearances. Prioritize those who wield the most influence or have the loudest opinions about your project.??

The Power-Interest grid is an effective tool to prioritize your stakeholder. It helps you prioritize your stakeholders based on how much your projects impact them and how much they impact your projects! Do read about it!?

• Understand Stakeholder Needs and Expectations?

Imagine you're trying to bake a cake for your friends, but one of them is gluten-free, another is vegan, and the third is just here for the frosting. You need to know what each stakeholder wants, so no one is left with a bad taste in their mouth. Conduct surveys, interviews, or even just eavesdrop on their coffee shop chatter if you have to (without appearing like a stalker!)?

• Establish Clear Communication Channels?

Picture this: You’re trying to reach your stakeholder via Microsoft teams, but they only use Zoom/Google Meet. Find out how each stakeholder prefers to communicate—whether it's a formal email, a casual tweet, or a carrier pigeon (not literally)—and use that method to keep them in the loop.?

• Develop a Stakeholder Engagement Plan?

This is your game plan, your playbook. Define how you'll interact with each type of stakeholder. Will it be weekly Zoom calls, bi-monthly newsletters, or the occasional smoke break? Clearly lay out your strategies, goals, and who’s responsible for what—think of it as setting the rules for your very own game show.?

• Build Relationships?

Remember, even your biggest fans (or critics) are humans. Invest in building real connections—be likeable, listen actively, and don’t forget to show a bit of empathy. A quick “how’s your cat doing?” can go a long way in turning a grumpy stakeholder into a loyal supporter.?

• Manage Expectations?

Avoid making promises you can’t keep, like telling your toddler they’ll get a pony for their birthday. Be upfront about what stakeholders can realistically expect, and steer clear of any “I’ll just add a few more zeros” moments in your project timeline.?

• Seek Input and Feedback?

Think of your stakeholders as the judges on a cooking show. They have opinions, and they’re not shy about sharing them. Regularly ask for their feedback and be prepared for a few “constructive critiques” along the way. Show that you value their input!?

• Resolve Conflicts and Issues?

When conflicts arise, channel your inner peacemaker. Address issues head-on with a calm demeanour and a knack for negotiation. Use techniques like mediation or compromise to smooth things over—think less “Mirzapur” and more “Tarak Mehta ka Oolta Chashma”.?

• Provide Regular Updates?

Keep everyone in the loop with regular updates. This is like giving the audience the latest episode of your show—make it engaging, informative, and, if possible, entertaining. Nobody likes a cliffhanger unless it’s the season finale.?

• Manage Change Effectively?

Change is inevitable, like getting a surprise plot twist. Communicate any changes clearly, explain why they’re happening, and how they’ll affect everyone involved. Be open to feedback and support from your stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition.?

• Evaluate Stakeholder Engagement?

After the dust settles, take a moment to reflect. Assess how well you managed relationships and communication. Gather feedback to see if your stakeholders are satisfied or if you need to tweak your approach—think of it as reviewing the season’s ratings and planning for next year’s drama.?

By following these steps, you’ll navigate the world of external stakeholders like a pro. With a bit of humour and a lot of care, you'll build relationships that are not only productive but also enjoyable. So go ahead—manage those stakeholders like you’re the star of your own reality show!?