Senior stakeholders expect regular updates. How do you strike the balance between information and overload?

1 Tailor Updates

Understanding each stakeholder's interests and responsibilities is key to tailoring your updates. You wouldn't provide the same details to a CFO as you would to a CTO, as their areas of concern are different. By customizing information, you respect their time and ensure they receive only pertinent data. This approach requires you to be familiar with their roles and the aspects of the project that align with their strategic objectives. It's a delicate balance of providing enough detail to satisfy their needs without burdening them with irrelevant information.

2 Frequency Matters

Determining the right frequency for updates is essential. Too often, and you risk becoming background noise; too infrequent, and stakeholders might feel out of the loop. Consider the pace of the project and the stakeholder's role in decision-making. For fast-moving projects or during critical phases, more frequent updates may be necessary. Conversely, for longer-term initiatives with less day-to-day change, less frequent updates may suffice. The goal is to keep stakeholders adequately informed without overwhelming them with constant communication.

3 Clarity Is Key

When communicating with senior stakeholders, clarity is non-negotiable. Avoid jargon and technical terms unless they are familiar with them, and even then, explain them briefly. Use clear, concise language and focus on the implications of the information rather than just the facts. Remember, stakeholders need to understand how the information affects the business and their decision-making. Your updates should be easily digestible, allowing stakeholders to quickly grasp the essentials and act if necessary.