In a new book, three journalists suggest how business leaders and CEOs can navigate media
News September 23, 2025

In a new book, three journalists suggest how business leaders and CEOs can navigate media

An excerpt from ‘The CEO Mindset: Developing Leadership Habits and Mental Models for Success’, by Shiv Shivakumar.

**Navigating the Media Maze: New Book Offers Guidance for Business Leaders**

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, a company's reputation can be made or broken by media coverage. Understanding how to effectively communicate with journalists and manage media relations is no longer a luxury for business leaders; it's a necessity. A new book, ‘The CEO Mindset: Developing Leadership Habits and Mental Models for Success’, features insights from three seasoned journalists offering practical advice on how CEOs and other business leaders can successfully navigate the complex media landscape.

The excerpt, penned by Shiv Shivakumar, delves into the crucial skills and mental models that CEOs need to cultivate in order to build positive relationships with the media and effectively communicate their company’s message. The authors recognize that many business leaders, while experts in their respective fields, often lack the specific training and experience needed to confidently engage with journalists. This can lead to miscommunication, misrepresentation, and ultimately, damage to the company's brand.

The book excerpt likely addresses the importance of preparation. Before speaking to a journalist, CEOs need to clearly define their key messages and anticipate potential questions. Understanding the journalist's perspective and tailoring responses accordingly is also emphasized. The authors likely stress the importance of honesty and transparency. While it's essential to present the company in a positive light, attempting to hide negative information or mislead the media can backfire spectacularly. Building trust with journalists is a long-term investment that can pay dividends during times of crisis.

Furthermore, the excerpt probably tackles the different types of media – from traditional print and broadcast to the increasingly influential world of online news and social media. CEOs need to understand the nuances of each platform and tailor their communication strategies accordingly. Engaging with social media, for instance, requires a different approach than giving a formal interview to a national newspaper.

The book aims to provide actionable strategies and practical tips that CEOs can implement immediately. By understanding the dynamics of media relations and developing the right mindset, business leaders can effectively shape their company's narrative and build a strong, positive reputation. Ultimately, the authors argue that effective media engagement is not just about damage control; it's about proactively shaping public perception and building long-term trust with stakeholders.
Category: Politics