A project manager is preparing for a stakeholder meeting. One key stakeholder is known for being highly influential but also resistant to new ideas and prefers detailed, written reports. Another stakeholder is less influential but highly enthusiastic and prefers quick, informal updates. How should the project manager tailor the communication strategy for these two stakeholders?
- APrepare a formal written report for the influential stakeholder and provide informal verbal updates to the enthusiastic stakeholder.
- BDelegate communication responsibilities to team members to manage diverse preferences.
- CSend a detailed written report to both stakeholders, as it's the most formal approach.
- DProvide a brief verbal update to both stakeholders to save time.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Prepare a formal written report for the influential stakeholder and provide informal verbal updates to the enthusiastic stakeholder.
Effective communication management involves tailoring the communication method and content to the specific needs and preferences of each stakeholder. The influential stakeholder requires a formal, detailed report to address their preference for written documentation and resistance to new ideas, while the enthusiastic stakeholder benefits from quick, informal updates.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While delegation can be part of a communication plan, the project manager is responsible for designing the strategy, especially for key stakeholders.
- C. This approach fails to address the enthusiastic stakeholder's preference and might be overkill.
- D. This approach fails to satisfy the influential stakeholder's need for detail and formality.
Stakeholder Communication Management
The process of developing an appropriate approach to project communications based on the communication needs of stakeholders and available organizational assets.
- Identifies who needs what information, when, and how.
- Tailors communication methods to stakeholder preferences.
- Ensures effective information flow to support project objectives.
Memory trick: Speak their language, listen to their tune, for communication to be true.