• AI is rewriting the rules of stakeholder engagement.

    AI is rewriting the rules of stakeholder engagement.

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic buzzword; it is a reality. It has moved decisively into boardrooms, community forums, and even our inboxes. For organisations, the shift is profound: AI is not just transforming operations—it is reshaping how we listen, engage, and build trust with stakeholders. Today’s stakeholders—whether customers, employees, investors, regulators, or…

  • Stakeholder Capitalism: The Shift That Will Define the Next Decade

    Stakeholder Capitalism: The Shift That Will Define the Next Decade

    We are living through one of the most profound transformations in the history of business. A quiet revolution is underway—reshaping boardrooms, redefining value, and reorienting leadership. The age of shareholder primacy, where success was measured narrowly by profits and stock performance, is giving way to something deeper and more durable: stakeholder capitalism. This is not…

  • Can Good Stakeholder Relations with Everyone Be the Key to World Prosperity?

    Can Good Stakeholder Relations with Everyone Be the Key to World Prosperity?

    In a world plagued by inequality, political instability, environmental crises, and economic disparity, we are compelled to ask: Could good stakeholder relations with everyone be the missing key to unlocking world prosperity? On the surface, this may sound idealistic. But dig deeper, and a compelling case emerges—one that is rooted in real-world examples, yet tempered…

  • Do Personality Traits Influence Success in Stakeholder Engagement and Relationships?

    Do Personality Traits Influence Success in Stakeholder Engagement and Relationships?

    Stakeholder engagement is often framed in terms of strategy, communication techniques, and institutional positioning. But behind every stakeholder interaction is a human being, with a personality that either builds trust or breaks it, opens doors or closes them, creates partnerships or provokes resistance. So, do personality traits influence success in stakeholder engagement and relationships? Absolutely.…

  • The Winning Strategy: Why Understanding Multiculturalism, Diversity and Inclusion Matters Now More Than Ever

    The Winning Strategy: Why Understanding Multiculturalism, Diversity and Inclusion Matters Now More Than Ever

    Many people hear multiculturalism, diversity, and inclusion, and immediately feel uncertain or wary. They often fear these ideas might undermine merit, threaten organisational culture, or push political agendas into the workplace. But these fears are based on a misunderstanding. To move forward, we must be clear about what these terms mean—and what they do not.…

  • Don’t Burn the Bridge—You Might Need to Cross It Again

    Don’t Burn the Bridge—You Might Need to Cross It Again

    Life is full of conflict, and staying calm when your patience is tested is no easy feat. However, losing your cool and reacting impulsively in stakeholder relationship management can be among the costliest mistakes ever. People will frustrate, challenge, and sometimes provoke you in business and life. Whether internal or external, stakeholders can seem unreasonable,…

  • Media: A Stakeholder and Strategic Tool in Stakeholder Engagement

    Media: A Stakeholder and Strategic Tool in Stakeholder Engagement

    Many organisations underestimate the influence of the media, viewing it merely as a platform for advertising or a threat in times of crisis. Yet, the media is a powerful and ever-present stakeholder that plays a central role in shaping how other stakeholders perceive and respond to a company’s actions. Its reach, credibility, and ability to…

  • Does Empathy Have a Place in Stakeholder Relationship Management?

    Does Empathy Have a Place in Stakeholder Relationship Management?

    Empathy is often seen as a personal virtue that defines strong interpersonal relationships. But does it belong in the corporate world, particularly in stakeholder relationship management? While some may argue that business is about logic, efficiency, and results, the reality is that organisations prioritising empathy tend to build stronger relationships, earn greater stakeholder trust, and…

  • The Critical Need for Training in Stakeholder Relations Management

    The Critical Need for Training in Stakeholder Relations Management

    Stakeholder relations are as old as human civilisation. From early trade to modern business, success has always hinged on our ability to engage, manage, and sustain relationships with those who matter most. Yet, despite its importance, stakeholder relations management remains an underappreciated discipline in corporate South Africa. While some business courses offer stakeholder engagement as…

  • CEOs and Stakeholders: The Key to Lasting Success

    CEOs and Stakeholders: The Key to Lasting Success

    A company’s success is not solely determined by its products or financial performance but also by its relationships with key stakeholders. Whether it’s employees, customers, investors, regulators, or communities, every stakeholder group plays a crucial role in shaping the organisation’s trajectory. CEOs who grasp the importance of these relationships can drive long-term growth, build a…