Managing Perceptions: A Project Leader's Responsibility
PMI's research shows that projects defining success criteria upfront achieve significantly higher success scores. Use this tool to apply the four key strategies for managing stakeholder perceptions:
1. Align on Success Criteria Early
Engage multiple stakeholders to understand their varied definitions of success
2. Continuously Reassess
Regular check-ins ensure stakeholders remain aligned as perceptions evolve
3. Storytelling with Data
Connect metrics to business objectives in meaningful, contextualized ways
4. Build Trust Through Empathy
Understand how stakeholders think to anticipate concerns and adjust communication
Stakeholder Mapping
Stakeholder Role
Influence (1-5)
Interest (1-5)
Their Success Definition
(Strategy 1: Align on Success Criteria)
(Strategy 1: Align on Success Criteria)
Communication Strategy
(Strategy 3: Storytelling with Data)
(Strategy 3: Storytelling with Data)
Empathy Notes
(Strategy 4: Build Trust Through Empathy)
(Strategy 4: Build Trust Through Empathy)
Check-in Frequency
(Strategy 2: Continuously Reassess)
(Strategy 2: Continuously Reassess)
Gap Analysis & Prioritization
Based on your stakeholder mapping, here are the priority areas for targeted communication: