Before Getting Serious With Stakeholders, Go to the Formal

Don’t be surprised if your project management trainer starts showing you high school dating videos from the 1950s. Not only are they funny, but they have a lot to say about managing stakeholders. They tell you to take someone to the formal before getting too familiar. Then they tell you to check into the background of those you plan to "get serious" with. Sounds like good advice to me!

A Formal Approach
Going to a formal approach in stakeholder management is important for two reasons: First, you must identify, in the Planning Stage, all the stakeholders and the needs of each of these stakeholders. Second, you have to establish and maintain collaborative and effective relationships with stakeholders throughout the project – and beyond.

A formal approach will allow you to attain your ultimate goal – making your life easier. When you have the stakeholders in your pocket, you can plan more effectively and resolve difficult issues more quickly. Stakeholders can even serve as early warning devices to warn you of severe weather on the horizon. Finally, you can use their expertise to improve your knowledge of the organization and its marketplace.