Right, I’m about to share some wisdom on a topic more crucial than remembering to put fuel in your car before setting off on a long journey: how to connect with your stakeholders. Now, if you’re thinking this involves a lot of tedious corporate jargon and soul-sucking PowerPoint presentations, you’re as wrong as a vegan in a butcher shop.
The art of tailored communication
First things first, you need to talk to people like they’re actual human beings, not robots. No one wants to hear a droning lecture that sounds like it was written by AI on Valium. Imagine you’re in a coffee shop, drink in hand, chatting with a friend. That’s the tone. It’s approachable, it’s genuine, and most importantly, it’s relatable.
Different stakeholders have different interests. A no-brainer, I know. Yet, too many people forget this and deliver a one-size-fits-all message that fits about as well as my jeans after Christmas dinner. When you’re speaking to your stakeholders, tailor your message to their interests and needs. If you’re talking to developers, focus on consents, construction delivery and growth potential. If it’s your employees, speak about job security and company culture. It’s like choosing the right car for the right terrain: you wouldn’t take a Lamborghini off-roading, like you wouldn’t drive a Land Rover on a racetrack.
Speak their language
Now, this doesn’t mean you should start throwing in slang like some sort of undercover teenager. It means understanding the lingo and buzzwords that resonate with your audience. But don’t overdo it. Using too much industry jargon can make you come across as pretentious, one who’s compensating for something. For instance, when talking to industry-savvy stakeholders, sprinkle in some tech terms, but keep it light and digestible. If you’re dealing with folks who are more about the bottom line, pepper your conversation with local benefits or economic insights, but don’t turn it into a lecture on fiscal policy. It’s about striking the right balance, much like handling a finely tuned sports car.
Be honest and human
Here’s a shocker: people appreciate honesty. In a world where corporate speak often masks the truth, being straightforward can be a breath of fresh air. Admit mistakes when they happen, and don’t try to sugar-coat issues, it just doesn’t work. When you’re genuine and transparent, people are more likely to trust you. And trust, my friends, is the most valuable currency in any relationship. Whether you’re managing a team or consulting stakeholders, being authentic will get you further than a thousand flashy presentations.
Storytelling: your secret weapon
Humans are wired to respond to stories that are relatable. They’re engaging, memorable, and can convey complex ideas in a simple way. Think of it like this: would you rather listen to a dry rundown of statistics or a compelling narrative that brings those numbers to life? Exactly. Use anecdotes and real-world examples to illustrate your points. If you’re talking about a successful project, tell the story of how it came to be, the challenges you faced, and the triumphs along the way. It’s not just about sharing information; it’s about creating a connection and making your message stick.
The power of listening
Here’s a tip that might seem instinctive, engaging with your stakeholders isn’t just about what you say; it’s about understanding what they’re saying. Pay attention to their concerns, feedback, and suggestions. This shows you value their input and are willing to adjust your approach based on their needs. Listening is like tuning a high-performance engine. You need to adjust and adapt to get the best results. By actively listening, you can respond more effectively and build stronger, more productive relationships.
In conclusion: keep it real
To wrap up, connecting with stakeholders is about keeping it real. Speak to them as you would to any reasonable person, tailor your message to their interests, use stories to make your points, and listen. If you can master these elements, you and your stakeholders will be like a West End choir singing from the same song sheet, in harmony. So go forth, communicate like a human, and watch as your stakeholder relationships accelerate and become meaningful. And remember, always keep it as real as possible.
Rapport North 