Concerns over privacy, workplace culture, and social responsibility have required the chiefs of Silicon Valley's biggest firms to defend themselves in unfamiliar forums, said Ben LaBolt, a partner at Bully Pulpit, an image consulting firm.
As tech companies face greater public scrutiny, and Congress considers regulation, LaBolt said executives must show they're sympathetic as well as diligent.
"A lot of it is as much style as it is substance," said LaBolt, a former campaign press secretary for President Obama. " It's showing respect for the members of Congress, talking to the broader public, not just the people in the room."
LaBolt said Monday in an interview with Cheddar that the Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg's appearance before Congress earlier this month was an example of the new requirements for Silicon Valley executives. Public hearings can test an executive's judgment in different ways than he or she is used to.
"I think starting with 'I'm sorry' is always a good place to start, but it's usually not enough," said LaBolt. "People need to see accountability."
He cited the case of Uber's former chief executive, Travis Kalanick, who was forced out after reports of combative behavior and a toxic work environment. Uber is a Bully Pulpit client, and since Dara Khosrowshahi took over the company, LaBolt said he has heard more from his client about efforts to change company's culture than he has negative stories about Uber being a difficult place to work.
For the full interview, [click here](https://cheddar.com/videos/image-and-branding-in-the-digital-era).
Hackers accessed the personal data of 6.9 million users via the genetic testing company 23andMe.
Stocks fell after the opening bell on Tuesday morning as signs pointed to another losing session.
Bitcoin is once again having a moment. On Monday, the world's largest cryptocurrency soared past $41,000 for the first time in over a year and a half — and marking a 150% rise so far this year.
Tree farmers are raising prices for Christmas trees.
Analysis shows smaller businesses are hiring more people.
Applying for financial aid for college is a long process but there's a new streamlined application for federal student aid. Mark Kantrowitz, student loan expert, joined Cheddar News to explain the FAFSA form and what kind of changes are expected.
With all of the stress surrounding the holiday season with gift-buying and planning family gatherings, it could be a chaotic time for all members of your family, including pets. Cesar Milan and Michael Ehrman, co-founders of Halo Collar, joined Cheddar News to provide tips on how to keep your pets stress-free for the upcoming holiday season.
Going home for the holidays can be pretty expensive, especially if you're a student. Cheddar News senior reporter Michelle Castillo provided tips on how to save ahead of the holiday season.
Alaska Airlines is buying Hawaiian Airlines, stocks finished at their highest level on Friday and are on the way to concluding 2023 on a positive note as Bitcoin surged. And Spotify is laying off workers, again.
United Airlines has introduced a new self-serve snack bar on its flights allowing economy passengers to help themselves to free snacks instead of relying on a flight attendant to get them.
