Which of the following best defines a stakeholder?

A stakeholder is best defined as any individual or group affected by an organization’s actions. This definition encompasses a wide variety of entities that interact with or are impacted by an organization's decisions and activities. Stakeholders can include employees, customers, suppliers, investors, community members, government agencies, and other groups. Each of these stakeholders can influence, and be influenced by, the organization, making their interests and needs crucial for effective public relations and organizational success.

This broad understanding of stakeholders is essential in public relations practice, as it emphasizes the need to communicate and engage with diverse audiences, considering how the organization’s actions may affect them positively or negatively. Understanding stakeholders and their relationship to the organization allows public relations professionals to craft strategies that address their concerns, manage potential crises, and enhance overall organizational reputation.