Now more than ever, we are expected to project stability in an era of volatility. Whether facing workforce disruptions, political uncertainty or AI-driven transformation, leaders must remain calm, adaptable and future-focused.
Key Takeaways for Page & Page Up Members
The U.S. is a disruptor, not the global stabilizer anymore. The global order is shifting. Communicators must prepare for policy shifts that impact supply chains, costs and strategy.
Geopolitical uncertainty requires proactive engagement. CEOs and CCOs must maintain dialogue with policymakers to mitigate risk before regulation disrupts business. Project calm, especially in crisis. Leaders look to CCOs for a sense of stability. "It's not enough to be calm; you must project calm."
Imperfect decisions are inevitable. Trying to craft the “perfect” response often leads to paralysis—focus on honesty, clarity and data-backed decisions.
Listen before you act. Stakeholder expectations are shifting. Success depends on deep listening and strategic engagement, and stakeholders demand clarity, communicators must provide transparent, strategic messaging in real time.
Chronic uncertainty is the new normal. CCOs must manage six generations in the workforce, heightened political divides and an economy in flux.
Page Society. (2024). London Stock Exchange Event Recap: Business in a Challenging Democratic Age.Page Turner Blog.
Harvard Business Review. (2024) 5 Rules for Companies Navigating Geopolitical Volatility. HBR.
What Members Are Saying
From Q&A Discussions:
🗣️ Question 1: "CEOs engaging with this administration face a challenge—how do they communicate on policy issues without becoming a target? Is engagement inherently transactional, requiring a give (like new investments) to get a favorable outcome?"
🗣️ Answer 1: "So far, the administration has been receptive. They want to hear how policies affect pricing, supply chains, and operations. CEOs have had productive conversations at the White House and key agencies."
"Media narratives often frame engagement as purely transactional, but the reality is that business leaders can influence policy without public bargaining. Direct conversations with policymakers, advisors, and congressional constituencies are crucial."
🗣️ Question 2: "What’s your advice for communicators when the president is a master at dominating the media cycle?"
🗣️ Answer 2: "Provide light, not heat. Don't react to everything in real time—wait to see how the situation evolves. Know your audience, and before hitting send, ask: Is this serving our long-term strategy?"
