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Writer's pictureGilbert Eijkelenboom

1-2-1 MindSpeaking: Data professional vs. Dominant stakeholder



In this month's edition, you will find:

🧠1 Tip for Data & Analytics about working with dominant stakeholders.

🎙️2 MindSpeaking Podcast episodes about emotional intelligence for Data professionals and how to ace your Data Science interview.

🤔1 Quote about how to make more impact in your Data job.


🧠 1 tip for Data & Analytics

"How do you deal with dominant stakeholders?" ​

That's what a Data professional in our training asked me.


Many struggle to work with dominant stakeholders.


You too?

Here's how I answered the question:


🤔 1. Observe Yourself


Be aware if you're getting annoyed. Once we get into a mindset of ("they're so 'dominant', or such a jerk"), we're building a wall. Remember: they are a human too, simply trying to reach their goals.

​🎯 2. Understand Their Goals:


Many dominant people are goal-focused. Acknowledge that you see this: "I understand that it's important to you to achieve ...". Emphasize common ground.

⏱️ 3. Match Their Pace:


Understand they are pressured. Be quick. Be concise.

​💡 4. Offer Solutions:


Be assertive. Many dominant people appreciate it when you share your opinion without holding back.

​🔄 5. Provide Options:


Many dominant people love to be in control. Give them some control by saying: "I see two options. Option 1)... Option 2)... What do you think?"


In summary:


  • Be quick.

  • Understand their goal.

  • And don't be afraid to share your opinion.


Book tip: Quiet by Susan Cain



Question: do you want to see more these — "dealing with type X stakeholder?"


Reply to this email with "YES".


Then I'll work out more examples.





🎙️ 2 MindSpeaking Podcast episodes

Tom Zierold, founder of EQuip, a coaching and training company focused on helping people improve collaboration and personal growth. Tom offers practical insights and strategies to help Data professionals manage their own emotions, recognize emotions of other people, and build stronger relationships at work.


Nick Singh, best-selling author of "Ace the Data Science Interview" and founder of DataLemur, shares insights on landing a job in data science. In this podcast interview, he discusses how to succeed at Data Science interviews and how to communicate technical concepts to non-technical audiences.





🤔 1 Quote to reflect on


“Only once you give yourself permission to stop trying to do it all, to stop saying yes to everyone, can you make your highest contribution toward the things that really matter.”

— Greg McKeown




When I started my business, I tried to do everything myself. Now, I have a team of 7 people who help me focus on tasks that make the most impact.

Many data professionals face numerous ad-hoc requests—simple questions here, quick dashboards there. However, you have a choice:


Find ways to make more impact in your job. For example:


  • Eliminate: evaluate the value of each request. Say no to low-value requests.

  • Automate: Use scripts to automate repetitive data pulls.

  • Consolidate: Merge similar ad-hoc requests into a comprehensive analysis.


Often, the answer is to focus on one or two critical projects, not more.

Ask yourself:

What are you doing today that you should:

  • Eliminate

  • Automate

  • Consolidate


That’s how you maximize your value for your organization. See ​this article​ I wrote in 2020.

Stop saying yes to everyone.

Say yes to what really matters.

Stay curious,

Gilbert

Ps. We have 2 exciting things coming up:

  1. Data Leaders event (June 27th): Learn from me and other Data leaders. In this live event, I'll share the 7 steps to elevate your team's Data Storytelling. There's room for discussion and Q&A. This online event is free, but seats are limited (max. 20). Secure your seat now.

  2. Free email course on Data Storytelling. I'll officially launch it soon, but you can be the first to benefit. In only 2 minutes/day, you'll level up your Data Storytelling and stakeholder communication. Sign up here.




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