For each category on the stakeholder map, there is a suggested approach for engaging with them in order to either maximise the leverage in the relationship or to minimise the potential for damage.
The overall goal of all activity is to work at moving all relationships into, or at least as close to, the top right hand box – Allies. However, we only have so much time and energy at our disposal, so we need to ensure that we spend it wisely.
We suggest the following hierarchy of activity…
Meetings with Advocates
If you are not doing so already, spend most of your time and energy here. Here is the bedrock of your political power and these relationships need careful nurturing and frequent updating if your base is to be solid. Reminding them regularly of your vision and purpose and the progress you are making towards it is key, as is reassuring them of the high value you place on your relationship with them.
Meeting Process…
- Affirm agreement on your project.
- Reaffirm quality of the relationship.
- Acknowledge doubts/vulnerability you have with project.
- Ask for advice and support.
Meeting with Critics
Their purpose is to authentically challenge and test us, in the same way that a good tennis opponent enables us to raise our game. Their questions and challenges develop our thinking in new and different ways and while we may not always be comfortable with this, or welcome it, we are secure in the knowledge that trust between us is high.
Meeting Process…
- Reaffirm quality of the relationship.
- State your position regarding your project.
- State neutrally what you think their position is on your project.
- Engage in problem solving.
Meeting with Players
We want these people to support us and we are encouraged by their apparent agreement with our vision; however, building the relationship dimension to convert them into Advocates requires a heavy time investment, time that might be better spent elsewhere.
The Gautrey Influence Blog
Ever felt overlooked, unheard, or stuck in office politics? You’re not alone. The Gautrey Influence Blog breaks down the real-world strategies behind leadership, influence, and power—giving you the tools to be heard, respected, and successful. Join 35,000+ professionals getting ahead the smart way—subscribe now.
💡 Benchmark your Influence: Take the Master of Influence Assessment (Free for Subscribers!)
👉 [Subscribe & Take the Assessment]
Meeting Process…
- Reaffirm agreement on your project.
- Acknowledge caution that exists.
- Be clear about what you want from Players in terms of working together.
- Ask them to do the same.
- Try to reach some agreement with Players as to how you’re going to work together.
Meeting with Enemies
Your awareness that their position might change needs to be with you at all times; however, while renegotiation is desirable, conversion will be unlikely. Time and energy is best used working with your allies to protect your project from any negative action by your Enemies. And remember, this is a strong label and needs to be used with caution. Most of the time, it is an exaggeration and greater understanding can quickly put them in a different box.
Meeting Process…
- State your vision for your project.
- State neutrally your best understanding of the Enemy’s position.
- Identify our own contribution to the problem.
- End meeting with your plans and no demand.
The Gautrey Influence Blog
Ever felt overlooked, unheard, or stuck in office politics? You’re not alone. The Gautrey Influence Blog breaks down the real-world strategies behind leadership, influence, and power—giving you the tools to be heard, respected, and successful. Join 35,000+ professionals getting ahead the smart way—subscribe now..
💡 Benchmark your Influence: Take the Master of Influence Assessment (Free for Subscribers!)
👉 [Subscribe & Take the Assessment]