Why some insights are more valuable than others

Lately I have been thinking about insights. An insight is the power or act of seeing into or understanding a situation. (I love the kids definition in Merriam Webster)

In my experience as a business partner, an insight shines a light on what’s behind the numbers. They are a way in for business partners to build relationships with their stakeholders by bringing value.

The value of an insight is in the understanding it brings. For a business partner, the value of an insight is in the understanding it brings to your stakeholder.

This is important for a couple of reasons:

(1) What might seem obvious to the business partner may be an insight to the stakeholder. The ability to communicate the insight in a way that the stakeholder can relate to is crucial. Simplify the analysis. Break it down for the stakeholder and they are more likely to act on it. IGNITE INTEREST.

(2) Insights that are uncovered by the stakeholder (in conversation with their business partner) will be more valuable than insights which are delivered (or spoon fed) by the business partner. CULTIVATE CURIOSITY.

Research by Gartner tells us that business partners with a teaching focus are twice as more likely to influence the actions of their stakeholders compared to those that are not.

Understand your stakeholder and you will understand the value you can bring them.

Robert