Check each stakeholder’s “track record” with regard to comparable issues. Were they supportive, or not? If possible, identify what position your stakeholders are taking with regard to the current change. Behaviors are more significant than attitudes. Those who say that they are supporters may quickly switch their views in the face of difficulties.

Equally, however, those who are initially hostile to the change may become supportive if they believe that the change will happen and be of benefit to them.