After decoding her P&L statement, Lisa barely had time to catch her breath before the next challenge arose. She thought to herself, isn’t that what leadership is? Moving from one hurdle to the next.
This time, the challenge came from a key stakeholder who unexpectedly shifted their expectations for the project. What was once a straightforward initiative focused on delivering immediate results had now evolved into a demand for long-term strategic planning and broader impact. The team was thrown off course, grappling with how to adapt their approach to meet these new priorities.
Lisa knew this wasn’t a technical problem with a clear solution—it was an adaptive challenge. Adaptive leadership, as Lisa had learned, was about navigating uncertainty, engaging stakeholders, and mobilizing her team to think creatively. It meant stepping back to assess the situation, asking the right questions, and empowering her team to find a path forward together.
Stakeholder Mapping Tools: A Guide to Effective Leadership Strategies
Because Lisa had read The Practice of Adaptive Leadership by Ronald Heifetz, Marty Linsky, and Alexander Grashow, she knew that adaptive leaders utilize various tools to navigate complex challenges effectively. One such tool is stakeholder mapping, which helps leaders identify and analyze the individuals or groups affected by a project or decision. This process enables leaders to understand stakeholders’ interests, influence, and relationships, facilitating better communication and engagement strategies.
Without access to advanced software, Lisa opted for a simple yet effective DIY version of stakeholder mapping. Using a whiteboard and markers, she created a grid to organize key information about each stakeholder:
Lisa started by identifying all stakeholders involved in or impacted by the project. She then categorized them based on their level of influence and interest, outlining their key concerns and the most effective way to engage with each group. This structured approach helped her visualize the landscape of relationships and priorities, making it easier to align her team’s efforts.
To gain deeper insights, Lisa reflected on key questions to better understand each stakeholder’s motivations, concerns, and the best ways to foster collaboration.
- What motivates them?
- What are their biggest concerns right now?
- How can I communicate in a way that builds trust and collaboration?
Adaptive Leadership in Action: Stakeholder Engagement Strategies
When Lisa met with the stakeholders, she began by presenting a clear summary of the project’s current state and acknowledged the shift in priorities. Using insights from her stakeholder map, she tailored her approach to address each group’s specific concerns and motivations.
For Primary Stakeholder A, Lisa emphasized how the proposed adjustments could strengthen the project’s long-term impact while staying aligned with the organization’s mission. She presented a revised timeline and measurable outcomes, showing a strategic approach to meet their expectations.
With Secondary Stakeholder B, she highlighted how operational deliverables would still be prioritized despite the shift. By proposing phased updates and realistic milestones, Lisa ensured that their immediate needs wouldn’t be overlooked.
For Tertiary Stakeholder C, Lisa reassured them that the project changes would have minimal impact on their other initiatives. She provided a high-level overview to keep them informed without requiring deep engagement.
Lisa’s Mapping Tool
| Stakeholder | Priority/Interest | Influence | Needs/Concerns | Engagement Strategy |
| Primary Stakeholder A | Long-term project impact | High | Assurance of alignment with the mission | Regular updates and strategic input |
| Secondary Stakeholder B | Operational deliverables | Medium | Timely communication of changes | Email briefings and key touchpoints |
| Tertiary Stakeholder C | Broader organizational goals | Low | Minimal disruption to other projects | Occasional updates as needed |
Throughout the meeting, Lisa relied on active listening—a key component of adaptive leadership. She asked clarifying questions, such as:
- “How can we best support your evolving priorities?”
- “What specific outcomes are most critical for you now?”
- “What does success look like for you in this new context?”
By creating an open dialogue, Lisa not only gathered valuable feedback but also demonstrated her commitment to collaboration.
With her stakeholder map complete, Lisa approached the upcoming meetings prepared to lead with clarity. Drawing from her understanding of adaptive leadership, she proactively addressed concerns, identified shared goals, and built a path forward that honored both the project’s mission and stakeholder priorities.
Aligning Leadership Actions with Core Values for Sustainable Success
Lisa also reflected on the tools she chose to navigate this challenge. As an adaptive leader, she saw the sudden shift not as an obstacle but as an opportunity to learn and hone her skills. Rather than subscribing to applications like Miro or Canva to create her stakeholder map, Lisa used a simple whiteboard and markers. She realized that mastering the fundamentals of stakeholder engagement was far more valuable than spending time and money figuring out how to use a new application.
“Just because you bought a cake mix,” Lisa thought, “it doesn’t make you a baker.” Similarly, she understood that tools should enhance her approach, not define it. By using a straightforward, hands-on method, Lisa stayed focused on the bigger picture—building trust, collaboration, and clarity among stakeholders while remaining true to the project’s mission and values.
This approach also demonstrated her ability to adapt resourcefully, setting an example for her team and stakeholders. Lisa made it clear that while flexibility in methods was important, the organization’s core values—integrity, impact, and collaboration—would not be compromised.
The Outcome of Adaptive Leadership
With the stakeholders aligned, Lisa returned to her team with a clear roadmap. Using the feedback gathered, she revised the project plan, integrating both the new priorities and the original goals. Her team, initially overwhelmed by the sudden shift, felt energized by the clarity and direction Lisa provided.
As the project progressed, Lisa continued to use the stakeholder map to monitor relationships, adapt strategies, and ensure ongoing alignment. The project ultimately exceeded expectations, achieving both the short-term operational goals and the long-term strategic impact that stakeholders had envisioned.
Reflecting on Leadership: Adaptive Tools
Lisa’s ability to embrace uncertainty, utilize practical tools like stakeholder mapping, and balance flexibility with steadfast values proved critical to navigating the challenge. Her leadership transformed a potential setback into an opportunity for growth and deeper collaboration—both for her team and the stakeholders.
