How to deal with difficult stakeholders as a product manager

The product company partners with multiple teams, serve customers and end-users. As a result, disagreements are inevitable in a product manager's daily interactions.

Effective collaboration can't take place if we don't deal with the conflicts that arise. However, knowing how to handle conflict can generate creativity and strengthen collaboration.

The FBI's Crisis Negotiation Unit developed this method to change someone else's behaviour.

1. Active listening: It's important to really listen to the person you're in conflict with.
2. Empathy: Try to understand the other person's perspective and needs.
3. Rapport: When people feel understood, they are more likely to trust, enabling us to build rapport.
4. Influence: The closer relationship created is a baseline to encourage someone to listen to our perspective.
5. Behaviour change: By following the first four steps, you're more likely to change someone's behaviour.