Here’s some valuable information obtained that was effected by FTI Consulting, surveying a slew of company stakeholders. (That means employees, shareholders, community members, among others, folks.)
The study made it evident that folks considered the CEO to be the primary driver of a company’s reputation. Moreover, can be seen from the results below, investors, employees, and influencers also believe that CEO’s are not just the primary driver of a company’s reputation, but that the CEO should take an unequivocal stand on important issues- not just for the company’s stake, but to benefit society at large.
CEOs must know that there is both a risk and reward for speaking out- which means these needs must be balanced. (This public pronouncement then becomes the CEO’s personal “corporate” brand.)
Whatever stand the CEO takes, it has to be consistent and genuine. Too many times large corporations say one thing and then quietly behind the scenes , do something totally different.
Right on, Alana. No need to BS the public.