Initially engaging with your stakeholders can be intimidating and frustrating. For example, you have no idea where to start, who to contact, or where the project stands. But don’t worry, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Know Who You Are
First, take a breath and rest assured that everything’s going to be okay. It’s tough starting out as a freelancer. All eyes are on you to work your magic, put on your problem-solving cape and lead with expertise. Talk about pressure! But pressure makes diamonds and you my friend, are the gem that clients are thrilled to have on onboard. You have strong qualifications such as confidence, empathy, and design-thinking skills. That is, after all, why you were chosen for the position!
What does it mean to engage stakeholders?
When you arrive on the scene, a project is often well underway, and it’s up to you to make connections, conduct thorough research, and determine where things stand from the perspective of each stakeholder. Your stakeholders are eager to speak to you, and I’m sure the feeling is mutual. They serve as a link between your problem-solving capabilities and the company’s objectives and expectations. Successfully engaging with stakeholders ensures that you are aware of the project’s finer points and the extent of your contributions. It’s also an important opportunity for you to outline your winning strategy for meeting essential requirements and customer expectations.
Creating A Winning Strategy
Prepare a detailed list of key questions that outline everything that you will need to establish a winning strategy. Create a list of the stakeholder’s you’ll be speaking with, as well as their roles in the project. Organize your questions based on each stakeholder’s role to learn more about their responsibilities, the project’s current and future expectations, and how you might contribute to a successful outcome. Considerations for engagement:
- Business Goals & Objectives
- Stakeholder Persona
- Stakeholder Current & Future Project Assessment
Essentially, your winning strategy should include ideas from individuals who are on the front lines of offering a better experience to consumers.
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