Stakeholder Analysis is the initial step in Stakeholder Management, a critical process used by successful people to gain the support of others. Managing stakeholders can also assist you in ensuring that your projects succeed where others may fail. As your career advances and you become more successful, your actions affect many people. And, as you involve more people, it is more likely that some of them will wield significant power and influence over your work. These individuals are your stakeholders. They may be strong supporters of your projects or oppose them, so you must identify who your stakeholders are.