In organizational communication, who are stakeholders?

Stakeholders in organizational communication are defined as individuals or groups that have an interest in the performance and outcomes of an organization. This includes a wide range of parties, such as employees, customers, suppliers, investors, community members, and even government entities. The reason this definition is so broad is that stakeholders can influence or be affected by the organization's policies, decisions, and overall performance.

Understanding stakeholders is crucial in organizational communication because it emphasizes the importance of considering various perspectives when making decisions and crafting communication strategies. Engaging with stakeholders can lead to improved relationships and enhanced organizational effectiveness, highlighting the need for effective communication with those who have a vested interest in the organization’s success.

The other options mentioned focus on specific groups or characteristics that do not encompass the full breadth of who stakeholders are. Some refer only to certain employees or management, which excludes other significant parties that influence or are influenced by the organization. This makes it clear that the correct answer encapsulates the wide-ranging interests of all involved in or affected by the organizational context.