Sharebird

How do you sell 'no, not now' to stakeholders?

Answer
2 Answers
  1. Natalia Baryshnikova

    Atlassian Head of Product, Enterprise Strategy and Planning • 4y

    There are three aspects to selling this well:  1. Empathy. You have to start with acknowledging the validity of a need or ask. Folks often skip that step and go straight to rebuttal. Don't do that - you need to empathize with the stakeholder, understand where they are coming from and really ponder a possibility that their ask may be a good thing to do. This is how you build trust.  2. Narrative of why not. Built upon the understanding of the stakeholder need above, you need to develop a crisp an ...Read More

    1,408 Views
  2. Sheila Hara
    Sheila Hara

    Barracuda Networks Sr. Director, Product Management • 2y

    As a Product Manager, selling 'no, not now' to stakeholders involves clear communication and strategic reasoning. Transparency is key! Explain the rationale behind prioritizing other tasks or projects, focusing on data and the overall product strategy. Emphasize how current priorities align with the company's goals and customer needs. Offer an alternative timeline or roadmap for their request, demonstrating that their input is valued and considered in future planning. Being transparent about res ...Read More

    595 Views

Related Ask Me Anything Sessions

Top Product Management Mentors