What is a key approach to take when working with a hesitant Product Owner?

Building trust with a hesitant Product Owner is crucial for effective collaboration and communication within a project. Highlighting past project successes serves as a powerful approach because it demonstrates credibility and reliability. By referencing previous achievements, you can reassure the Product Owner of the team's competence and the positive outcomes that have been achieved in similar circumstances. This approach helps to create a sense of security, making the Product Owner more comfortable in expressing their ideas and concerns.

In addition, showcasing successes can illustrate how challenges were previously overcome, providing a framework for addressing current hesitations. This method fosters an open dialogue, encouraging the Product Owner to engage more fully in the project. When they recognize that past efforts have led to successful outcomes, they may be more willing to collaborate and contribute.

In contrast to this approach, focusing solely on project deadlines might lead to added pressure without addressing the underlying reasons for their hesitation. Keeping all information to oneself could lead to misinformation and a disconnect between team members and the Product Owner, exacerbating any doubts. Ignoring their concerns altogether could alienate the Product Owner and create a lack of trust, ultimately harming project success. Building trust through demonstrated past successes, therefore, is the most constructive and supportive approach.