Wouldn’t it be great to guarantee that your systems and business operations will go smoothly, just as planned?
Imagine, for example, that you’ve decided to bring on a new accountability system that involves implementing a new technology that can be reviewed quarterly, monthly, and weekly in pursuit of the company’s long-range goals. What happens if your stakeholders disagree with any of the steps in the process of completing this project?
That’s where your IT project manager’s skills are critical for the initiative’s success, especially if they have strong stakeholder relationship management skills. They plan for the unexpected. They also know how to work with your stakeholders when onboarding and completing projects.
How stakeholder relationship management can change attitudes
The stakeholders in this process can include anyone affected by the decision to pursue a new tech initiative: company leaders, employees in various departments or the field, regulators, and even vendors. Their concerns and even their actions can result in roadblocks preventing project success.
Without relationship management, employees may distrust a new system or process, such as the new technology you are trying to implement. “It’s a gotcha,” they might say. “Management is always out to get us.”
The IT project manager recognizes that by developing and maintaining a relationship with all stakeholders, the project will be more likely to succeed. The IT Project Manager will communicate clearly, build trust, and garner support.
Skills for managing relationships
The key to managing relationships with stakeholders is simple but not easy. Treat every stakeholder as though they bring real value and are critical to the success of your project.
Your IT project manager will have skills for:
- Cutting through red tape. Every industry is subject to bureaucratic delays. IT Project Managers who have good relationships with regulators, agency reps, or government officials can pick up the phone to ask questions.
- Maintaining confidence. A high level of trust exists between the manager and the stakeholders. When the unexpected happens, stakeholders will remain confident about the IT project manager’s ability to overcome the temporary hurdle and move on.
- Involving shareholders. Current shareholders want to know how their investment in your company is doing. Savvy IT Project Managers know this, and they communicate clearly and succinctly about project success. They know how to build relationships with the investors you seek to attract.
Your organization’s success depends on the quality of relationship management with your stakeholders. Hiring the right IT project manager who can develop these critical relationships is something your recruiter can help you with.
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