- Stakeholder relationships in tribal contexts are sometimes more complex due to the overlap of tribal and business governance.
- HR must regularly influence stakeholders across a broad spectrum of issues and model best practices, such as applying fair hiring policies consistently.
- In tribal contexts in particular, influencing can be especially challenging if HR is brought in from outside the tribal community and must build trust in order to function effectively.
Our Advice
Critical Insight
- Strong stakeholder relationships in a Native Nations context often require communicating effectively with tribal stakeholders.
- Building strong relationships with stakeholders across the organization gives HR the influence it needs to succeed in its initiatives and drive business results.
Impact and Result
- Strong stakeholder relationships begin with open communication. Use McLean & Company’s HR Stakeholder Management Survey to encourage communication between HR and stakeholders across the organization, including tribal stakeholders.
- Gain a clear understanding of stakeholder needs and priorities, as well as where HR needs to focus improvements.
- Invite stakeholders to give input on changes, to increase trust and buy-in.
- Train HR to communicate with and effectively influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Identify key stakeholders within the organization and develop a strategy for communicating with them.
- Train HR in six influence tactics, and adapt these to suit tribal culture and values.