Stakeholder Management Flashcards

A diversity council is being formed. Which composition is most likely to drive organizational change?

Answer: Cross-functional senior leaders and diverse employees with clear charter and decision rights

Councils with influential, diverse, cross-functional membership and a defined mandate can make and drive decisions.

Which external stakeholder group is MOST directly relevant when a company sets supplier diversity goals?

Answer: Minority-, women-, and veteran-owned business enterprises and certifying bodies

Supplier diversity programs engage diverse-owned businesses and certifiers such as NMSDC and WBENC.

When communicating disappointing representation data to the board, what is the best practice?

Answer: Share the data transparently with root-cause analysis and a corrective action plan

Transparency paired with analysis and a plan maintains trust and demonstrates accountability.

A union representative raises concerns that a new DEI policy changes working conditions. What should the diversity executive do?

Answer: Engage the union early through appropriate labor-relations channels and seek collaboration

Changes affecting terms and conditions of employment in unionized settings typically require engagement with the union, and collaboration reduces conflict.

What is 'stakeholder mapping' most useful for during change management?

Answer: Visualizing relationships, influence, and support levels to prioritize engagement

Mapping visualizes support and influence so leaders can focus effort on key relationships.

Middle managers are often described as the 'frozen middle' in DEI efforts. Why?

Answer: They often face competing pressures and lack tools or incentives, which can stall implementation

Middle managers translate strategy into daily practice but may lack resources, skills, or accountability to do so.

Which technique best ensures stakeholder feedback is actually incorporated into a DEI plan?

Answer: Closing the loop by sharing what was heard and what actions resulted

Closing the feedback loop builds trust and shows stakeholders their input mattered.