We often use the term Stakeholder. Every business or organisation has them: customers, suppliers, investors, employees, members, citizens.
We also use the term Consultation. By that we mean genuinely sharing knowledge and engaging in dialogue, so that your audience’s response is respected, is meaningful, is acknowledged and that it is worthwhile for them to take the trouble to make.
The greatest compliment
Consultation is also about really letting people know that their views will influence matters. That builds trust. In business, there is no greater compliment to a person than asking them what they think of your ideas, plans and polices – and really mean it by giving them a platform to say exactly what they think!