This usually happens as projects get more complicated and requires multiple teams to develop it and most of the times, 3rd party stakeholders will be part of the team. The most important thing is not to point fingers and blame the external stakeholder for being late. No one likes to be blamed. Next, I'd ask for a partial update and the target date for the complete update. Build trust by noting that things might change and timeline might be longer as more information surfaces, and that is ok. Lastly, set up an individual call with the person to get the information. Sometimes, people do not want to share to a big group officially before they are certain.

I manage the situation by proactively communicating with all parties involved. I set clear expectations with external stakeholders about the timeline and importance of the information. If delays occur, I follow up politely but persistently, ensuring they understand the urgency. Meanwhile, I keep my team informed about the status and adjust project timelines and deliverables as needed. I also explore alternative solutions or interim measures to keep the project on track despite the delays.

Managing expectations and maintaining open communication with all parties helps reduce friction and ensures alignment. As for me: 1. I stay proactive by setting clear deadlines upfront and following up regularly with a polite, professional tone. 2. If delays occur, I communicate transparently with my team and adjust timelines or priorities as needed. 3. When possible, I also explore alternatives or partial solutions to keep progress moving.

Waiting on external info can be frustrating, especially when timelines are tight. I try to stay proactive—checking in respectfully, offering support to unblock things, and keeping internal progress moving where I can. At Passelle, I’ve learned to build in buffer time, communicate transparently with the team, and have backup plans. Delays happen, but momentum doesn’t have to stop.

1. Set Clear Expectations Early – At the start, I communicate clear deadlines and the impact of delays on the overall project. This helps stakeholders understand the importance of timely responses. 2. Follow Up Strategically – I send polite but firm reminders if deadlines are missed, escalating the urgency depending on how critical the information is. I use a mix of channels—email, calls, or even leveraging internal contacts—if needed. 3. Escalate if Necessary – If delays impact project milestones, I escalate to senior stakeholders with context and data, seeking their help in unlocking the bottlenecks. 4. Document Everything – I keep a record of all communication and updates for transparency and accountability.

When delays happen with external stakeholders, I stay proactive but respectful. I make sure expectations and timelines are clear from the start, so everyone understands what’s needed and by when. If there’s a holdup, I follow up with a polite reminder, explaining how the delay impacts the project. While waiting, I shift focus to other tasks or prepare whatever I can in advance. If things drag on too long, I escalate through the right channels. I also keep a clear record of all communication to ensure alignment and transparency. It’s all about keeping things moving without burning bridges.

When it comes to decision from stakeholders, things will come on its way and it is just matter of hours to get expressed. In the mean while, let us the business go based on its basic principle and strategy of operation. The good element on such action is, you are getting protected the business onside and you are on the priority other side..keep going. Any discussion if needed, please feel free to contact me on +918547484769

🚦 Stakeholder Delays? How Top PMOs Stay in Control Waiting on critical inputs? 20+ years in biotech PMOs taught me: delays reveal partnership gaps. My playbook: 🔹 Prevent AI predicts 89% of delays upfront "No-surprise" contract clauses 🔹 Adapt Parallel workflows save 63% timeline waste Auto-escalation triggers 🔹 Transform 40% of delays spark IP opportunities 🔸 Pro Tip: Quarterly alliance scans cut delays by 51% (Bain 2024) How do YOU turn waiting games into wins? 👇 — Nara Gubbala | Biotech PMO Strategist | 9X ROI Architect

When facing delays from external stakeholders, I’ve found that sending a “soft deadline” suggestion works wonders. Instead of just asking, “When will I get this info?” I phrase it like, "It would be helpful to receive this by [date], so I can keep things on track for [next milestone]. I understand if that timeline doesn’t work, but just wanted to check in." This gentle nudge communicates urgency while offering flexibility, and it’s a great way to keep things moving without pushing too hard.

I usually set clear expectations at the start – including timelines – and then build in buffer time for delays. If things go quiet, I send a gentle nudge, looping in anyone else who might help unblock things. Meanwhile, I focus on what I can progress internally so momentum isn’t lost. Communication is everything!