Collective Wisdom from the Experts 169
that critical functions/groups are represented on the core project team, or on
the extended project team, as resources.
Review stakeholder standards of success with decision makers at each meeting
to ensure that alignment remains consistent.
Here are some other suggestions:
• Respect the business needs of stakeholders, even if you don’t agree.
• Ensure confidentiality on sensitive issues to build trust.
• Create an alliance of stakeholders to support your project.
• Get stakeholders actively and meaningfully involved.
• Solicit stakeholder ideas and use their input.
• Keep stakeholders informed.
• Leverage those with positive attitudes and get them invested—visibly if
possible.However, expect setbacks and roadblocks and be ready to address them as
they occur. There will always be bumps on the road, so do not put the pres-
sure on yourself or the stakeholders to be perfect. Just deal with these issues
as they arise, and learn the lessons they will teach you so you do not have to
face them again.
Engaging stakeholders early enough and keeping them involved as part-
ners until the end of project will help you to avoid show stoppers. They may
not understand the details of project management, but if you help them
meet their business goals, they will join you in celebrating excellent project
performance.