How do you handle project saboteurs?

2 Communicate and engage

The second step is to communicate and engage with the saboteurs regularly and transparently. You need to establish trust and rapport with them, and show them how your project can benefit them or address their issues. You also need to listen to their feedback and suggestions, and acknowledge their contributions and challenges. By doing so, you can reduce their resistance and increase their involvement and commitment.

3 Negotiate and compromise

The third step is to negotiate and compromise with the saboteurs when necessary. You need to be flexible and adaptable, and find win-win solutions that can satisfy both parties. You also need to be assertive and respectful, and avoid escalating conflicts or damaging relationships. You can use techniques such as the BATNA (best alternative to a negotiated agreement), the ZOPA (zone of possible agreement), or the NVC (nonviolent communication) to facilitate constructive and collaborative negotiations.

4 Monitor and manage

The fourth step is to monitor and manage the saboteurs throughout the project lifecycle. You need to track their behavior and performance, and provide them with regular updates and feedback. You also need to anticipate and mitigate any potential problems or risks that they might cause or encounter. You can use tools such as the RACI matrix (responsible, accountable, consulted, informed), the risk register, or the issue log to clarify roles and responsibilities, and document and resolve issues.

5 Leverage and empower

The fifth step is to leverage and empower the saboteurs to become allies or champions of your project. You need to recognize and reward their achievements and improvements, and provide them with opportunities and resources to grow and learn. You also need to involve them in decision making and problem solving, and encourage them to share their knowledge and experience with others. By doing so, you can enhance their motivation and loyalty, and turn them into positive influencers.

6 Learn and improve

The final step is to learn and improve from your experience with the saboteurs. You need to evaluate and reflect on what worked and what didn't, and identify the lessons learned and best practices. You also need to solicit and act on feedback from the saboteurs and other stakeholders, and implement changes and improvements. By doing so, you can continuously improve your senior stakeholder management skills, and build stronger and more productive relationships.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?