Effective stakeholder engagement gives policymakers the information, support, and confidence they need to move forward. In practice, that means better policy, fewer surprises, and more stable outcomes. When governments understand how a policy will be received on the ground, and when they know who supports it and why, they are far more likely to move in that direction. Across Canada, but especially in places like Québec and Ottawa, well-planned engagement can shape the narrative before decisions are made. It ensures that the right people are consulted, that their perspectives are clearly communicated, and that the message aligns with broader political priorities. When this is done well, organizations move from reacting to policy to influencing it. That is the real value of strategic stakeholder engagement.
