Mastering M&A Narratives: A Systemic Approach to Shaping Success Through Circular Storytelling

This book reimagines mergers and acquisitions as emotionally charged, narrative-driven processes rather than linear business events. Challenging traditional models that separate pre- and post-acquisition phases, it introduces a dynamic framework that emphasizes the sequence and emotional impact of acquisition-related communications. At its core is a focus on middle managers--key yet often overlooked actors--whose emotional responses to evolving narratives shape the success or failure of an acquisition.

The book captures the systemic-constructivist emphasis on relational, process-oriented, and meaning-centered approaches to managing change--especially in the emotionally charged context of M&A--contrasting with more linear, control-driven frameworks.

Drawing on national and global case studies, the book explores how fear, hope, anxiety, and relief emerge from how and when messages are delivered. It proposes a shift from sole authorship, typically attributed to acquiring CEOs, to a model of contributorship where both acquiring and target CEOs co-author the acquisition story. This shift enhances narrative legitimacy, coherence, and emotional alignment.

The book introduces a circular storytelling model, showing how acquisition narratives are not isolated events but evolving sequences that influence and respond to stakeholder emotions over time.Through a systemic and constructivist lens, it offers practical insights for structuring emotionally intelligent communication strategies that support smoother transitions and long-term integration.

Compelling for scholars and practitioners alike, this work bridges theory and practice with a systemic approach, redefining M&A success with a resource orientation and solution focus building on the power of story and emotion. In a field hungry for quick fixes, this is a radical--and deeply humane--stance.

Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: de Gruyter
Published: 04/21/2026
ISBN: 9783111616209
Pages: 104
Weight: 0.41lbs