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.
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