5 Ways to Lead Fearlessly in Times of Crisis

It is inevitable that we will experience crisis, whether personally, in our business, in our nation, or even globally.  This year seems to be filled with one crisis after another and people look to leaders for direction.  As a leader, your actions during times of crisis have significant impact on those you lead and are evidence of your efficacy as a leader.  Demonstrate your leadership during times of crisis by heeding these five areas:

1. Be present.  A true leader must be visible and present during times of crisis.  This is not a time to delegate to others or hide in the shadows.  Your followers must know that you are aware of the present challenge and that you are ready to actively lead.  Being present may look like speaking publicly, communicating directly with followers via phone or email, or visiting impacted areas or impacted people.
2. Be informed.  Having accurate information during times of crisis is imperative.  Seek information from credible sources.  Read reports, examine data, and seek the counsel of experts.  This is not the time to rely on rumors or second-hand information.
3. Be compassionate.  A crisis, no matter how widespread, will not impact everyone in the same way. A leader cannot show empathy for people in situations that they have not experienced themselves; therefore, compassion is necessary when making decisions and policy changes that affect followers.  Keep in mind the many financial, familial, and social scenarios that may be present among your followers or employees.  Be open to listening to people who are impacted because their personal stories may provide valuable insight into what decisions need to be made or how they will be impacted by decisions.
4. Be honest.  In times of crisis, especially those that are widespread, people are often aware of the gravity of the situation.  An effective leader can be honest with their followers while still being optimistic and hopeful. This is not a time to try to hide data or pending actions for the sole purpose of maintaining morale.  If an outcome or consequence is inevitable and followers feel that the leader attempted to downplay it or even cover it up, more harm will be caused than by being upfront and honest.
5. Be human.  The crisis may affect you too.  As a leader, it can be difficult to push aside your own feelings and emotions during a time of crisis.  It is not necessary to be completely stoic during a time of crisis.  Followers appreciate a demonstration that their leader is human too.  The humanness of a leader creates a spirit of togetherness through a shared experience that can support collective survival and recovery.

Being a leader is already challenging and leading during a time of crisis puts a leader’s skills to the test.  For some leaders, the efficacy of their leadership during a time of crisis can determine their current job security, future promotion, or removal from office.  Leading during crisis can be daunting, but there are many examples of great leaders who have led fearlessly during times of crisis.  Heeding advice and following the examples of other strong leaders will help you to also lead fearlessly in times of crisis.
 
If you would like support while leading or aspire to be a leader, contact Amber E. Williams today!