How do you suggest managing feedback from a large pool of "stakeholders" when it comes to finalizing messaging you've put together.

I've found that managing stakeholder feedback on messaging requires both art and science. Here's the framework I've developed through years of leading complex messaging initiatives:

• Phase 1 - Cast a wide net (2-3 weeks): Gather diverse perspectives through structured workshops with sales, product, and customer success teams. I use a clear feedback template focusing on message clarity, authenticity, and impact to make input actionable.

• Phase 2 - Refine with intent (1-2 weeks): Synthesize feedback into clear themes, weighing input against customer research and market positioning. Share this synthesis transparently to demonstrate how stakeholder perspectives shaped the evolution. If there are stakeholders with strong opinions or out-sized influence, I’ll often do 1:1s to ensure alignment and input. 

• Phase 3 - Drive to decision (1 week): Narrow to 3-5 essential decision-makers, document clear rationale for messaging choices, and run focused review sessions with firm timelines for sign-off.

The goal isn't to make everyone happy - it's to create compelling messaging that drives business results while maintaining key stakeholder alignment. Success comes from balancing inclusive input with decisive action.