Last updated on Jul 7, 2024

Here's how you can build trust with stakeholders in program coordination using active listening and empathy.

Building trust with stakeholders is a critical component of successful program coordination. Trust forms the foundation of effective communication and collaboration, which are essential for any program's success. As a program coordinator, it's your responsibility to foster a trusting environment. This involves being an active listener and demonstrating empathy towards the concerns and needs of your stakeholders. By genuinely engaging with them and understanding their perspectives, you can establish a rapport that not only benefits the current program but also sets the stage for successful future initiatives.

1 Active Listening

Active listening is not just about hearing words; it's about fully comprehending the message being conveyed. To build trust, you must listen to stakeholders with undivided attention, acknowledge their input, and respond appropriately. This means minimizing distractions, making eye contact, and using affirming gestures or words to show that you are engaged. Reflecting on what has been said and asking clarifying questions also demonstrates your commitment to understanding their perspective. Active listening can lead to more meaningful interactions and can help uncover underlying concerns that may affect the program's progress.

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Bayode Akomolafe

Brand Consultant //Certified Digital marketer || Web Designer || Graphic Designer
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For me. I believe active listening is a sign of respect for the other person. It shows you are actually interested in what the other person has to say and your body language should also suggest that you are listening actively

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2 Show Empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. In program coordination, showing empathy towards stakeholders involves recognizing their emotions and viewpoints. This doesn't mean you have to agree with them, but you should strive to appreciate their position and the factors driving their opinions. When stakeholders feel understood, they are more likely to trust your decisions and the direction of the program. Empathy also helps in resolving conflicts and building stronger relationships, which are essential for collaborative success.

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3 Clarify Goals

Ensuring that all stakeholders have a clear understanding of the program's goals is vital for building trust. Misunderstandings can lead to mistrust, so it's important to articulate objectives clearly and concisely. Use simple language and avoid jargon that might confuse non-experts. Encourage stakeholders to express their understanding of the goals and provide feedback. This not only helps align everyone's expectations but also demonstrates your transparency and openness to input, which can further solidify trust.

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Dr Paleja H. I.

Project Manager at UKRI GCRF One Health Poultry Hub
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Clearly defining the project's goals is crucial to align stakeholders with the work. When we launched our project, we shared detailed information on professional and social networks, as well as with professionals in the field. This facilitated our field research and helped align their expectations with the project's objectives. Regularly updating stakeholders on various activities and milestone progress is essential, as their input can be invaluable. Sharing goals and progress helps the project team understand stakeholders' perspectives and enhances collaboration.

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4 Provide Updates

Regular updates keep stakeholders informed about the program's progress and any challenges encountered along the way. Transparent communication about successes and setbacks is crucial for maintaining trust. When providing updates, be honest and provide context for any issues, as well as your strategies for addressing them. This openness shows that you are managing the program responsibly and that you value the stakeholders' role in the process.

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5 Respect Differences

In any group of stakeholders, there will be a range of opinions and perspectives. Respecting these differences is key to building trust. Acknowledge diverse viewpoints and encourage open dialogue. When disagreements arise, address them constructively and seek common ground. Showing respect for all contributions fosters a collaborative atmosphere where stakeholders feel valued and more willing to engage in the program wholeheartedly.

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Teesha jain

Management Enthusiast| Ex-President @NSS Maitreyi| Ex-President @Rotaract Maitreyi| Girl Up Saarthi| 6X LI badge holder| 65K impressions
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Respecting differences can significantly enhance project coordination by fostering a more inclusive and collaborative environment. When team members feel valued and understood regardless of their backgrounds or perspectives, it promotes open communication and trust. This inclusivity leads to diverse ideas and innovative solutions, as people bring unique strengths and viewpoints to the table. Respecting differences also reduces conflicts and misunderstandings, allowing the team to focus on common goals and work more efficiently. Ultimately, a respectful and inclusive atmosphere enhances teamwork, productivity, and project success.

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6 Follow Through

Following through on commitments is perhaps the most direct way to build trust. When you say you will do something, make sure it gets done. If circumstances change and you cannot meet a commitment, communicate this proactively to stakeholders. Explain the situation and the new plan of action. Consistency in your words and actions will reinforce stakeholders' confidence in your reliability and integrity as a program coordinator.

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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?

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Program Coordination

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Here's how you can build trust with stakeholders in program coordination using active listening and empathy.

1

2

3

4

5

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7

1 Active Listening

2 Show Empathy

3 Clarify Goals

4 Provide Updates

5 Respect Differences

6 Follow Through

7 Here’s what else to consider

Program Coordination

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Here's how you can build trust with stakeholders in program coordination using active listening and empathy.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Active Listening

2 Show Empathy

3 Clarify Goals

4 Provide Updates

5 Respect Differences

6 Follow Through

7 Here’s what else to consider

Program Coordination

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