How to deal with difficult stakeholders?

Stakeholders are all people. Individuals. They have their own biases, opinions, preferences, etc.

Some stakeholders are there from the last 15-20 years and are not welcoming to change. Some are very busy and do not appreciate if you go with very basic questions. It is important to nurture a good relationship with these stakeholders.

Here are the four tips to deal with unhappy stakeholders as a Business Analyst:

4 Tips for Dealing with Unhappy Stakeholders as a Business Analyst

1. Build Empathy and Understand Their Perspective

Unhappy stakeholders often feel unheard or overlooked. Take the time to listen actively and understand their concerns. Ask open-ended questions like, “What challenges do you foresee with this change?” or “What outcomes would make this project a success for you?” This helps uncover the root of their dissatisfaction and shows that their input is valued.

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2. Tailor Communication to Their Preferences

Each stakeholder has unique communication preferences. For stakeholders resistant to change or with long-standing experience:

• Avoid overexplaining; focus on what impacts them directly.

• Use their preferred formats, like emails or concise presentations, rather than long meetings. For busy stakeholders, come prepared with clear, actionable points to maximize their time.

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3. Focus on Small Wins

Stakeholders resistant to change may feel overwhelmed. Break the project into smaller milestones and involve them in celebrating early successes. For example, if a hesitant stakeholder sees that a minor feature benefits their workflow, they may become more open to supporting larger changes.

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4. Establish Credibility Through Consistency

Earn trust by consistently delivering on promises. Follow up on action items promptly and communicate progress transparently. If an issue arises, acknowledge it and present a clear plan to address it. Reliability reassures stakeholders and reduces resistance over time.

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Building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders is essential to project success. By applying these tips, you can turn even unhappy stakeholders into collaborators who contribute positively to the project.