Engaging Stakeholders Without the Jargon: A Practical Guide
Written on
Chapter 1 Understanding Stakeholder Engagement
In the realm of data analytics, keeping your stakeholders engaged is crucial. Once they become confused, you risk losing their interest. Remember, the data you work with is ultimately intended for people, not merely technology enthusiasts. If you can’t secure their engagement, what’s the point? Enhancing your communication quality is the first step toward fostering better relationships with your stakeholders.
When I transitioned from academia, I quickly realized that I needed to abandon my scientific vocabulary. I was eager to adopt the eloquent speech of business leaders. They always seemed so articulate and capable in movies. "I can't wait to speak as smoothly as they do," I thought.
However, after spending some years in the corporate environment, I developed a strong aversion to corporate jargon. I find it to be one of the least effective forms of communication, even more frustrating than trying to read someone’s mind.
Data projects come with their own set of complexities. The skills necessary for effective communication in these projects often exceed those required for other types of projects. It’s essential to express your ideas clearly while also making the intricate work accessible without coming across as condescending.
Now, imagine throwing corporate jargon into the mix. Even the most sophisticated translator would struggle to clarify what is actually happening. If your audience is left bewildered, what’s the purpose of your presence? Those who rely on corporate jargon often seem to have no intention of addressing any issues; it acts as a barrier to genuine problem-solving. To complicate matters, the data analytics sector has increasingly embraced various Agile methodologies.
Don’t misunderstand me; Agile has its merits. However, repackaging the fundamental aspects of Agile into a multitude of certifications and courses feels excessive. The market is rapidly churning out various Agile project management methods.
To counter this, I present my seven straightforward steps from Data Concierge Agile, which come devoid of jargon, unnecessary meetings, and certification requirements. It’s designed to be so straightforward that it comprises just five core competencies and seven easy-to-follow steps.
These principles are simple enough for someone at a third-grade level to grasp, making them suitable for use in multilingual environments. My aim is to simplify data project management to the point where you can concentrate on what you excel at—analyzing data and extracting valuable insights.
Stay tuned for my next article, where I will outline the core competencies of Data Concierge Agile.
The first video, "How to Identify Stakeholders: 5 Easy Ways (HACK YOUR CAREER)," provides practical insights on stakeholder identification, essential for effective engagement in any project.
The second video, "How to Identify Stakeholders Easily," offers additional strategies for recognizing and connecting with key stakeholders in your initiatives.