GLOSSARY
Arbitration
Method of stakeholder conflict resolution with all stakeholder groups in conflict agreeing to accept the decision or judgment of the independent arbitrator.
Competitors
These are the firm’s rivals, which operate in the same industry and contest for the same customers.
Conciliation
Method of stakeholder conflict resolution which aims to align the incompatible interests of different stakeholder groups by helping different parties to better understand each other’s interests.
Conflict
This refers to the mutually exclusive and incompatible interests of different stakeholder groups. If this is not managed, it often leads to protracted disagreements, disputes, and arguments in the workplace.
Customers
These are the firm’s clients, individuals and other businesses, who purchase the organization’s goods and/or services. Their interests include competitive prices, fit-for-purpose products and overall value for money.
Directors
The group of senior managers who run a company on behalf of the owners of the company.
Employees
These are the workers within an organization. Their interests include: job security, a competitive remuneration package, a safe working environment, and opportunities for career development.
External stakeholders
Stakeholder groups that are not directly involved in the running of an organization but have a direct interest in its operations.
Financiers
Financial institutions (such as banks) and individual investors who provide source of finance for businesses. They are interested in the organization’s ability to generate profits and to repay debts.
Government
The ruling authority within a state or nation. The government, as an external stakeholder, is interested in businesses complying with the laws of the country, such as employment legislation.
Internal stakeholders
These stakeholders are part of the organization, such as employees, managers, directors, and shareholders.
Local community
The general public and local businesses that have a direct interest in the activities of the organization. They are interested in the firm’s ability to create jobs and to operate in a socially responsible way.
Managers
The people hired to be responsible for overseeing certain functions, operations, or departments within an organization.
Pressure groups
Individuals who come together or organizations that are set up for a common concern. They aim to influence government and public opinion in order to create the desired social change.
Shareholders (stockholders)
The people or organizations that have shares in a company. Their interest is financial, i.e. regular dividends and a higher share price.
Stakeholder conflict
Refers to differences in the varying needs, perspectives, and priorities of the numerous stakeholder groups of an organization.
Stakeholder mapping
A business management model used to determine the relative interest of stakeholders and their level of influence (or power) on an organization.
Stakeholders
The individuals, organizations, or groups with a vested interest in the actions and outcomes of a specific organization. They are directly affected by the performance of the business.
Suppliers
Organizations that provide the goods and support services for other businesses. Their interests include receiving regular orders and receiving payments from their business customers on time.
EXAM PRACTICE
Tesla, Inc., led by CEO Elon Musk, is recognised for its groundbreaking electric vehicles and commitment to clean energy. The company's approach to stakeholder engagement, particularly Elon Musk's active presence on Twitter, draws attention.
Discuss how Elon Musk's active presence on Twitter influences the perceptions of three stakeholders?
Tesla, Inc., led by CEO Elon Musk, is recognized for its groundbreaking electric vehicles and commitment to clean energy. The company's approach to stakeholder engagement, particularly Elon Musk's active presence on Twitter, draws attention. Let's explore how three stakeholders might perceive Musk's Twitter presence.
Discuss how Elon Musk's active presence on Twitter influences the perceptions of three stakeholders?
Investors (Shareholders):
Positive Impact: Elon Musk's tweets about Tesla's future plans, product updates, and industry insights may instill confidence among investors. Transparency and real-time communication can be perceived positively, offering a sense of involvement.
Negative Impact: Musk's unpredictable tweets, especially those related to company valuation or stock prices, may create volatility in the market. Investors might find the informal communication style concerning, impacting their confidence in the company's stability.
Customers:
Positive Impact: Musk's direct engagement on Twitter allows customers to feel connected to the company. Updates on upcoming features, responses to customer queries, and glimpses of the company's vision may enhance brand loyalty and customer satisfaction.
Negative Impact: Controversial or unconventional tweets by Musk might polarize customer opinions. The informal nature of communication could also lead to misunderstandings or confusion about the company's direction.
Employees:
Positive Impact: Musk's active presence on Twitter can create a sense of excitement and pride among employees. Real-time updates on company achievements and future plans might foster a culture of innovation and progress.
Negative Impact: Unfiltered communication on social media may also pose challenges for employees. Ambiguous or contradictory tweets might create uncertainty among the workforce, affecting morale and job satisfaction.