ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the establishment of the engagement process, service content and emotional contract with stakeholders. If the business partner's aims are to create enterprise value and excel in their role, there is a requirement to understand the complexity of stakeholder engagement. Effective engagement should also consider the impact on softer issues that will build and support effective relationships. The engagement and development of the relationship between the business partner and the stakeholder will vary within a range of both formal and informal arrangements. Any potential engagement or conflict identification will need to address and be significantly influenced by the power of the stakeholder. The responsible, accountable, informed model will support the definition of initial boundaries of the engagement to business-as-usual activities. Clear objectives will establish what the business partner and stakeholders are planning or targeting to achieve. Business partnering towards a laissez-faire model can be relevant where the business partnering relationship is of an advisory or infrequent usage basis.
