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
This was, of course, a meeting that should have been an email.
Run the fake meeting simulator. Generate a bingo card. Be busy without being there.
Open the simulator →