1. Acknowledge and Listen Begin by meeting with the stakeholder privately to discuss their concerns. Acknowledge their feelings and express a genuine interest in understanding their perspective. Active listening is key—focus on their words without interrupting, and use clarifying questions to ensure you grasp their viewpoint. This conversation is not about defending past actions but about showing empathy and care for their input. Example: “I understand you feel your contributions have not been acknowledged. I want to understand how we can better involve you moving forward.”

To rebuild trust with a key stakeholder who feels overlooked in project discussions, it is essential to initiate an open and constructive dialogue to acknowledge their concerns and perspectives. Actively listen to their feedback and make a deliberate effort to involve them in decision-making processes. Consistently providing regular updates and maintaining transparent communication will reaffirm their importance to the project and ensure their contributions are valued and heard.

I think the first thing to address is that you cannot control anyone’s feelings. If someone feels a certain way then they need to be challenged on why they have chosen to feel it. If they feel left out or disconnected in a project, then brainstorm on what actions THEY need to take in the future to feel more included. As a leader I choose to challenge people to control their own destiny instead of adjusting myself around everyone else and their “Feelings”. This is how you build a group or team of high performers!

Reestablishing trust is a journey that demands patience and ongoing dedication. By being open and honest (understand the issue or concern), keeping a consistent approach (agreed own or mutual actions), and focusing on meaningful engagement (two way communication and commitment), we can build reliability and develop lasting, collaborative relationships.

I’d have an open conversation to understand their concerns, acknowledge the oversight, involve them more in discussions moving forward, and ensure their input is valued.