Last updated on Aug 30, 2024

You're facing pushback from stakeholders on new project strategies. How will you win them over for success?

When embarking on a new project strategy, encountering resistance from stakeholders is not uncommon. It's a scenario that can lead to frustration and setbacks, but with the right approach, you can transform skepticism into support. Understanding their concerns, communicating effectively, and demonstrating the value of the new strategy are key to winning over your stakeholders and steering your project toward success. By engaging stakeholders with a clear vision and a collaborative approach, you can pave the way for a smoother transition and a more successful outcome.

1 Build Trust

To win over stakeholders who are resistant to new project strategies, begin by building trust. This means actively listening to their concerns and demonstrating that you value their input. Transparency is crucial; share your research, the reasoning behind the new strategy, and potential benefits. By acknowledging the risks and showing how they are mitigated, you help stakeholders feel secure. Trust is earned when you show that you understand their perspective and are working in the best interest of the project.

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Katya Talavera de Ward

Talent Strategist | Head Hunter | Systemic Team Coach | Leadership, Executive & Career Coach | Transforming People, Organizations & Building Value-Adding Teams
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When stakeholders push back on new project strategies, it signals a need to strengthen trust. It is key to have transparent communication and real collaboration. By addressing concerns openly, involving stakeholders in the process, and delivering consistently, we can build the trust needed to move forward together. Trust it’s earned through respect, reliability, and true partnership.

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Lou Petrella

Change Management Consultant, Voice Over Actor
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One thing I’ve found helpful in building trust with others is to actually walk in their shoes for a while, where you can understand their perspective in a real sense. This worked better for me than just relying on what people have told me from their perspective. Why? Because especially in corporate settings, some people are unfortunately very afraid of what their management may think of their loyalty if they tell an “outsider” what their unfiltered opinions are regarding an unpopular change, given imagined retribution they might face. I have often felt that people feel very honored in “showing you the ropes” and once they see you trying to understand what they deal with first hand, it builds trust, and sometimes friendships.

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2 Communicate Clearly

Clear communication is essential when addressing stakeholder pushback. Ensure that your message is concise and that you avoid jargon that could confuse or alienate your audience. Use examples and analogies that relate to their experiences to make the strategy more tangible. Schedule regular updates and be open to feedback, creating a two-way dialogue that keeps stakeholders informed and involved. By making communication a priority, you help stakeholders feel more connected to the project's success.

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Lou Petrella

Change Management Consultant, Voice Over Actor
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One thing I’ve found helpful is to understand the “lingo” and ways that a community communicates, and try to leverage as much as possible from forums and communication vehicles already in use. Also employ people from the community to help champion the message in the ways the community will feel natural and free to voice their opinions and feedback to optimize two way communications and understanding.

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3 Align Interests

Aligning the interests of your stakeholders with the new project strategy is a powerful way to gain their support. Identify what motivates each stakeholder—whether it's financial performance, innovation, or market leadership—and demonstrate how the new strategy aligns with these goals. Show how the project benefits them personally or professionally. When stakeholders see how the strategy serves their interests, they are more likely to become champions for change.

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Katya Talavera de Ward

Talent Strategist | Head Hunter | Systemic Team Coach | Leadership, Executive & Career Coach | Transforming People, Organizations & Building Value-Adding Teams
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When introducing a new strategic approach, pushback from stakeholders is natural. Instead of seeing it as a roadblock, I view it as an opportunity to partner with stakeholders and build something stronger together. The key lies in active listening, understanding their concerns, and aligning the strategy with their goals. By fostering open dialogue and demonstrating the value these changes bring, we turn resistance into support. Success isn't just about having the best plan; it's about partnering with everyone to make it a reality.

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4 Leverage Advocates

Identify and leverage advocates within your stakeholder group who are supportive of the new strategy. These individuals can influence their peers and help shift the overall sentiment. Encourage them to share their positive perspectives and experiences. By fostering a network of support, you create a ripple effect that can transform the opinions of hesitant stakeholders. Advocates serve as valuable allies in building momentum for the new strategy.

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5 Provide Evidence

When faced with skepticism, providing concrete evidence can be a game-changer. Share case studies, pilot results, or testimonials that demonstrate the effectiveness of similar strategies. Data-driven evidence speaks volumes and can address concerns about feasibility and impact. By presenting clear proof of potential success, you can alleviate fears and build confidence in the new strategy among your stakeholders.

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6 Offer Support

Finally, ensure that stakeholders have the support they need to embrace the new strategy. This could include training, resources, or even just an open-door policy for addressing concerns. By offering support, you show that you're committed to not just implementing a new strategy but also to ensuring that it's sustainable and that your stakeholders are comfortable with the transition. This level of care can significantly increase buy-in and pave the way for successful implementation.

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You're facing pushback from stakeholders on new project strategies. How will you win them over for success?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Build Trust

2 Communicate Clearly

3 Align Interests

4 Leverage Advocates

5 Provide Evidence

6 Offer Support

Business Services

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You're facing pushback from stakeholders on new project strategies. How will you win them over for success?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Build Trust

2 Communicate Clearly

3 Align Interests

4 Leverage Advocates

5 Provide Evidence

6 Offer Support

Business Services

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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