Unlocking Value Through Effective Stakeholder Engagement: Strategies, Challenges and Innovation
This webinar brought together a wide range of corporate functions involved in stakeholder engagement to discuss what it takes to drive meaningful stakeholder engagement that delivers real value. The session explored how organizations can align internal functions, overcome common pitfalls, and leverage emerging tools – including AI – to innovate their approach.
Key takeaways:
- Stakeholder Engagement Is Central to Building Trust – across sectors, effective stakeholder engagement was identified as the top driver of trust in organizations. It’s no longer a side-of-desk activity – it’s a strategic imperative embedded in leadership and business processes.
- Engagement Must Be Purposeful and Outcome-Driven – Anglo American and Standard Bank emphasized that stakeholder engagement must be tied to clear business outcomes. It’s not just about dialogue – it’s about unlocking value, resilience, and long-term success.
- In-Person Dialogue Still Reigns Supreme – despite the rise of digital tools, face-to-face engagement and open dialogue remain the most effective methods for building trust. AI and tech can support efficiency, but human connection is irreplaceable.
- Avoid Common Pitfalls: Engagement Is Not a Checkbox – stakeholder engagement must be strategically aligned, internally supported, and reciprocal. It’s not just about listening – it’s about mutual value creation and follow-through.
- The Stakeholder Landscape Is Rapidly Evolving – companies must navigate increasingly diverse and polarized stakeholder groups, including unexpected pressure from new actors. This requires agility, systems thinking, and a diplomatic approach to engagement.
