Using teamwork quality for managing stakeholder participation: Findings from the Danish-German border region

This chapter examines the crucial role of stakeholder participation in successful rural development initiatives. Recognising the diverse interests, the authors argue for actively involving various stakeholders in decision-making processes to foster acceptance and facilitate implementation. The chapter explores the link between stakeholder participation and teamwork quality, emphasising the need for effective collaboration and conflict resolution skills. It challenges the traditional focus on instrumental participation, advocating for a broader approach prioritising managing stakeholder relationships. Drawing on empirical findings, the authors highlight the mediating influence of individual factors like trust, social skills, and self-efficacy on the relationship between collaboration quality and stakeholder participation. They underscore the importance of regional leadership in initiating dialogue and fostering stakeholder involvement from the outset. This contribution offers a practical model illustrating the interplay between stakeholder participation and teamwork quality. It provides valuable insights for managing rural enterprises seeking to implement effective stakeholder participation strategies. Furthermore, it suggests a direct link between leadership and social sustainability, highlighting the broader impact of effective stakeholder engagement.