How to deal with diverse voices

This chapter focuses on the issue of diverse stakeholder expectations, a common challenge faced during the process of stakeholder engagement. Based on an assessment of relevant literature, we elaborate on key aspects in dealing with stakeholder expectations. We propose that there are three critical tools to address the challenge of diverse voices: (1) stakeholder mapping to identify and diagnose potential areas of conflict, (2) stakeholder dialogue to engage with stakeholders with opposing expectations and to foster participation and (3) organizational mechanisms to support and govern stakeholder engagement. We present a framework that will help organizations cope with conflicting interests of stakeholders.