A key stakeholder in a deal goes silent. How will you break the communication barrier?

Sometimes silence speaks louder than words. This could actually be a negotiation tactic by the other party, depending on the nature of the transaction or the deal in question. If it is a tactic, then it may be done in order to force your hand on a certain issue. Seek to understand the modus operandi of the key stakeholder. As a first step I would look to arm myself with knowledge about their status and whereabouts, and then seek guidance from other stakeholders with better knowledge on the reasons behind the silence. In addition the key stakeholder may have a preferred mode of communication which one may overlook entirely. For instance, silence on email correspondence could mean they prefer that you pick up the phone to talk!

When a key stakeholder goes silent, try a personalized approach by tailoring your message to their specific interests and emphasizing the value of engagement. Implement a structured follow-up plan with well-timed reminders and share any new developments that might rekindle their interest. Seeking feedback on previous communications can also help address any issues. By balancing persistence with strategic, value-driven communication, you can improve the chances of reestablishing effective dialogue.

- Leverage Existing Relationships: Use mutual contacts or colleagues to facilitate a connection and understand the reason for the silence. - Send a Clear and Concise Follow-Up: Draft a polite follow-up message highlighting the importance of their input and the deal's progress. - Provide Value-Added Updates: Share new insights or developments in the deal to reignite their interest and engagement. - Offer Flexibility: Suggest alternative communication methods or times that might be more convenient for them. - Escalate if Necessary: If there’s no response, consider escalating the issue to higher-level contacts within their organization while maintaining professionalism.

To break the communication barrier with a key stakeholder who has gone silent, first ensure your outreach is respectful and persistent. Send a polite, clear message or email summarizing the key points of the deal and the importance of their input, while offering a specific time for a follow-up discussion. If there’s no response, consider reaching out through alternative channels such as a phone call or a personal meeting. Address any potential issues they might be facing by asking if there are concerns or obstacles preventing their engagement. By demonstrating understanding and flexibility, you increase the chances of re-establishing communication and moving the deal forward.