Balancing conflicting stakeholder priorities demands clarity and diplomacy. Start by facilitating open dialogue to uncover the rationale behind each stakeholder’s priorities, ensuring everyone feels heard. Map these priorities to overarching project objectives, highlighting synergies to build alignment. When conflicts arise, focus on shared outcomes. Negotiate practical compromises, emphasizing solutions that maximize value for the project. Transparent communication and a focus on the bigger picture keep stakeholders engaged and the project moving forward.

When stakeholders have conflicting priorities, I approach it like a puzzle—every piece matters, but it takes the right fit to complete the picture. For example, during Kenya Airways' rebrand, we had tensions between boosting external visibility and addressing internal morale. Instead of choosing sides, I brought everyone together to get their perspectives. I asked questions like, “What does success look like for you?” and “How can we tackle this together?” Once the common ground was clear, we prioritized quick wins that benefited both sides—like a campaign highlighting employees alongside customer testimonials. It wasn’t about making everyone perfectly happy; it was about finding a shared path forward that everyone could rally behind.

When stakeholders have conflicting priorities, I focus on creating alignment by understanding their individual goals and finding common ground. Through open dialogue, I clarify the project's overarching vision and demonstrate how each priority fits into the bigger picture. By prioritizing based on impact and value, while maintaining transparency and fairness, I ensure everyone feels heard and invested in the solution. Collaboration and empathy are key to turning conflicts into opportunities for stronger outcomes.