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I have managed internal and external stakeholders

This competency requires candidates to go beyond simply stating that they interacted with stakeholders. A common weakness is describing routine communication (e.g. sending emails or providing updates) without explaining the approach taken to manage relationships, handle expectations, or influence outcomes.

Strong submissions clearly demonstrate how the candidate planned, structured, and delivered their stakeholder engagement, particularly where there were differing priorities, challenges, or multiple parties involved. Assessors are looking for evidence of both communication technique and relationship management, including how the candidate added value.

Key elements expected in a strong submission:

• Evidence of context and complexity
  Clearly describing the situation, including whether it involved multiple stakeholders, conflicting priorities, external parties (e.g. auditors, clients), or a challenging scenario
• Structured stakeholder approach
  Demonstrating how the candidate planned and managed interactions (e.g. preparing materials, setting objectives, organising meetings, or coordinating between teams)
• Clarity in communication methods
  Explaining how engagement took place (e.g. meetings, presentations, calls, follow-up summaries) and why those methods were appropriate
• Coordination and relationship management
  Showing how the candidate liaised between different groups—particularly internal vs external stakeholders—and ensured alignment or resolution
• Outcome and impact
  Explaining what was achieved, how challenges were addressed, and why the outcome was important (e.g. improved processes, successful audit completion, resolved issues)

Examples of Strong Evidence

• Liaising between internal and external stakeholders:
  A candidate coordinates between internal finance teams and external auditors during year-end, preparing schedules, addressing queries, and ensuring timely submission of information
• Managing complex stakeholder interactions:
  A candidate leads discussions between different internal departments with competing priorities, facilitates alignment, and ensures agreed actions are completed

Demonstration of Stakeholder Management Behaviour

Candidates should provide evidence of actively demonstrating stakeholder management through:

• Clearly explaining the situation, stakeholders involved, and level of complexity
• Planning and structuring interactions (e.g. preparing presentations, setting agendas)
• Using appropriate communication channels (e.g. meetings, calls, reports, follow-ups)
• Liaising effectively between different groups to ensure alignment
• Managing expectations and responding to challenges or queries
• Delivering outcomes that support business objectives or improve processes

Key Reminder

Candidates should focus on how they managed stakeholders and the impact it had, not just that interaction took place. Statements such as “I worked with auditors” or “I communicated with stakeholders” are not sufficient.

The emphasis should be on approach, coordination, and outcomes, demonstrating active involvement in managing relationships and driving results.