Working effectively with stakeholders is a common challenge for school business officials (SBOs) and noninstructional school leaders. SBOs are often frustrated by unrealistic expectations and a lack of appreciation for their efforts. What's more, they are often blamed for things over which they have no control. One might blame lack of communication, and in a sense that's true. But it doesn't have to be that way. By applying a few simple concepts, it's possible to change stakeholder perceptions. That's the good news. The bad news is that it won't happen instantly. Stakeholders did not develop their notions in a day, and they won't change them because of one positive experience. It is harder to build trust and confidence than to erode them, which is all the more reason to get started immediately. Effective communication is a practiced skill that will help one move forward. In this article, the authors discuss the basics.