When identifying stakeholders, which of the following groups is typically included?

Identifying stakeholders is a crucial aspect of public relations, as it involves recognizing all the parties affected by or interested in an organization's actions and decisions. Employees and shareholders represent two fundamental groups within stakeholder identification.

Employees are vital stakeholders because they are directly involved in the organization's daily operations, performance, and culture. Their perspectives and inputs can impact the organization's success, making their engagement critical in decision-making processes. Shareholders, on the other hand, have a financial interest in the company, and their perceptions can significantly affect the organization's strategies, particularly concerning profitability and sustainability.

Including both employees and shareholders in stakeholder identification ensures a more comprehensive understanding of the various interests at play, facilitating effective communication and relationship-building efforts. This recognition allows organizations to align their strategies with the expectations and needs of these critical groups, ultimately contributing to the organization's overall effectiveness and reputation.

The other options do not encompass the full range of stakeholders effectively. Focusing solely on top management or non-profit organizations overlooks other essential stakeholders. Restricting the focus to customers only excludes significant internal stakeholders, while only considering one demographic does not reflect the diverse interests that can affect an organization's operations.