The simple truth is that not all audiences are created equal. Some audiences have a vested interest, or “stake” in your organization. Each stakeholder relationship is unique in its form and substance. This relationship sets the stage for the stakeholder communication with that group.

Designing deliberate stakeholder communication approaches that align with organizational objectives is vital. A strategic approach that is rooted in understanding the nature and importance of the stakeholder relationship is what elevates a communications program from being ordinary, to being truly transformative at a corporate level.

Best Practices in Stakeholder Communications defines stakeholder communication and offers specialized advice for managing stakeholder relationship toward results. The paper also introduces the concept of Stakeholder Mapping and provides guidelines for using the technique to promote a strategic approach to stakeholder communications.