What it actually means
A person whose feelings I must manage.
Surface meaning: Anyone with an interest in or impact from a project.
If someone just said “Stakeholder” in a meeting, here is what they probably meant, what to do about it, and how to keep your sanity.
In the wild
PM: Let me get sign-off from all stakeholders.
(72 hours, 14 emails: 9 of 11 have replied.)
How to respond
Make a stakeholder map. Decider, contributor, informed, ignored. Most 'stakeholders' belong in column 3 or 4.
Origin
Management theory, 1960s (R. Edward Freeman formalized it in 1984). Originally meant something specific; now means anyone with an opinion.
FAQ
What does "Stakeholder" actually mean?
A person whose feelings I must manage.
Where did the phrase "Stakeholder" come from?
Management theory, 1960s (R. Edward Freeman formalized it in 1984). Originally meant something specific; now means anyone with an opinion.
How should I respond when someone says "Stakeholder"?
Make a stakeholder map. Decider, contributor, informed, ignored. Most 'stakeholders' belong in column 3 or 4.
Related corporate vocabulary
The email version of this phrase is in your inbox right now.
The Email Relevance Checker tells you whether that thread ever needed you on it.
Open the Email Relevance Checker →