Which category do community members and the general public fall into regarding business interest?

Community members and the general public are classified as external stakeholders because they exist outside of the organization but still have an interest in its activities and impacts. External stakeholders can influence or be influenced by the actions of a business even though they do not have a direct financial stake in it. This group includes various entities such as customers, suppliers, and the community, which may be affected by the company's operations, decisions, and overall presence in the area.

The focus of external stakeholders often revolves around social, environmental, and community-related issues rather than purely financial concerns. Understanding the needs and views of external stakeholders is pivotal for businesses, as their support can enhance a company's reputation and integrate its objectives with community values, leading to sustainable practices.

Internal stakeholders, on the other hand, are directly involved in the organization, such as employees and management, and are primarily concerned with the internal workings of the business. Financial stakeholders are those who have a direct financial investment, such as shareholders or investors, while regulatory stakeholders are those organizations or entities, like government agencies, that impose regulations on the business. Each of these groups has distinct characteristics and roles in relation to the business, making the identification of external stakeholders crucial for effective stakeholder management and strategic planning.