Laura West, a seasoned leader and researcher, shares her expertise in managing stakeholder requests when resources are tight. She emphasizes the importance of creative problem-solving and encourages leaders to take a proactive approach rather than a quick 'no.' West advocates for transparency by showing the work done and presenting multiple options to stakeholders. Highlighting data trends further supports informed decision-making. Overall, her insights promote resilience and communication in navigating resource constraints.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Pause Before Responding
Pause for 30-60 minutes before responding to a request, even if you think you lack resources.
Use this time to check with your team, explore alternative solutions, and avoid an immediate "no".
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Show Your Work
After considering a request, "show your work" when responding.
Share who you consulted and what solutions you considered, even if you ultimately can't fulfill it.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Present Options
When declining requests, offer alternative solutions.
Suggest training, adjusting deadlines, breaking down projects, or re-prioritizing other tasks.
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Laura West: Coaching for Leaders Fellow
Laura West is a seasoned leader and researcher with many years experience executing and training others in data analysis and strategy. She's led large teams across several organizations, holds a Ph.D. in linguistics, and is an alum of the Coaching for Leaders Academy. She was selected as one of our new Coaching for Leaders fellows and has taken on a leadership role in supporting our current Academy members.
What do you do when you get a request from a stakeholder, but don’t have the resources to fulfill it? That’s a reality almost every leader faces. In this conversation, Laura and I discuss both the mindset and tactics that will help you respond well.
Key Points
Rather than an immediate “no,” spend an hour working through some steps to creatively problem solve around the request.
Show your work. When you respond, share who you’ve talked with and what’s already been considered to respond to the request.
Present options by summarizing 2-4 paths forward and your recommendations.
Be the data person. Highlight trends over time that help influence different business decisions and maintain your credibility.
Prioritize. But tell, don’t ask. Take the lead on identifying what’s important on behalf of the stakeholder and begin the work.
Resources Mentioned
Responding to Stakeholder Requests With Limited Resources by Laura West (free membership required)
Related Episodes
The Way to Turn Followers Into Leaders, with David Marquet (episode 241)
How to Start Managing Up, with Tom Henschel (episode 433)
The Way to Influence Executives, with Nancy Duarte (episode 450)
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