Bernardo Provenzano the now jailed Costra Nostra mafia leader (Godfather based of his life) has went on the record about ways that he felt were the best to run a business. Some of his practices may not be applicable for CEO coaching such as intimidation through threat of violence but many of the things he had to say are in fact useful. Provenzano focuses his reputation management on these 7 rules:

Submersion- He thinks if a company is going down the tubes the first step is to go underground. Meaning taking the business number out of the phonebook and anything else that keeps the company out of the public eye. “Bury your mistakes and get on with it (Provenzano).”

Mediatation- He says “Be calm, clear, correct and consistent, turn any negative experience to account.” He went on to say always hear both sides of a story before making a decision. This is great CEO coaching advice.

Consnesus- A CEO must be a positive part of the surrounding society through charity efforts to get the public behind your cause.

For the rest of the reputation management advice follow this link: http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/apr/09/internationalcrime.italy#/

Mike Myatt, a top CEO coach noted for his skillful handling of many a high profile corporate crisis had the following to say about the tips noted above: "While entertaining, I wouldn't necessarily agree with much of what was espoused here...As an example, the theory of submersion will likely only make things worse. If there is trouble brewing in today's world the media, regulators, adverse parties, or any number of other constituencies will eventually find out about it. Never attempt to hide a problem, rather be highly visible and proactive in your approach to crisis management and you will be better served in the long run", said Myatt.