Navigating power struggles in a strategic communications project requires diplomacy, clarity, and stakeholder alignment. 1. First, identify the underlying tensions—whether authority conflicts, competing agendas, or misaligned expectations. 2. Foster open dialogue to ensure all voices are heard while reinforcing the project’s shared objectives. 3. Define clear roles, set decision-making protocols, and mediate disagreements through data-driven insights. 4. Use influence over authority, focusing on collaboration rather than competition. By maintaining transparency, emphasizing the collective goal, and strategically managing egos, you can steer the project toward successful execution without disruption.

When establishing clear roles and responsibilities, I have used a RACI matrix. This has helped define who is responsible, accountable, consulted and informed. This often helps make sure those in power are clear where their responsibilities fall. Additionally I think setting clear expectations and clear communication helps in this regard. Simple definitions often help. And having a space to discuss and clarify roles and definitions is important. I have learned that keeping things simple often reduces conflict.

I once talked with a former client of mine who suffered in a change initiated at his engineering firm. He went on to gain certification in change management. While I focused upon convincing dissenters that typically drag change processes, his approach was far more centralized. He found “just do it” was a far better approach. He found, with decisive action, he could bring in those who favored the change & put the desired changes in place as quickly as possible. This gave dissenters a chance to ‘choose again’ how they wanted to proceed. Under his approach, communication that highlights anticipated outcomes of the desired change creates a magnet building momentum to complete it. March ahead, looking neither right nor left, but straight ahead.

▪️Establish clear roles ▪️Align stakeholders on shared goals ▪️Foster transparent communication ▪️Actively listening, addressing concerns diplomatically ▪️Leveraging data-driven insights

Power struggles emerge naturally in strategic communications when multiple stakeholders have valuable perspectives to contribute. Clear governance frameworks and documented decision rights aren't just process documents - they're essential tools for navigating complex dynamics with respect. Addressing tensions early through structured dialogue helps build trust and mutual understanding. While these conversations require courage, they create the foundation for genuine collaboration rather than surface-level agreement. Success in strategic work isn't about eliminating power dynamics, but rather channeling diverse viewpoints toward shared objectives. When we focus on outcomes over ownership, better solutions emerge.