After Crises, It’s Time for Leaders to Lead

The recent domestic terrorist attack on the US Capitol reminded me of how I felt as a young supervisor during the 9/11 incident. Given the chaos that ensued after the attacks in NY and DC, my employees were seeking direction and someone to talk to, and I myself was looking for advice and counsel from my management. Unfortunately there was silence from our executive ranks as it appeared to be business as usual. We were left to fend for ourselves with no direction. Deciding to step up and lead, I told my employees to go home if they needed to, that work can wait until tomorrow. I myself couldn’t focus on work and had to get home and call my loved ones.

Last week’s attack on the US Capitol isn’t much different. Your employees are all different, and each of them probably went through different emotions. Some probably couldn’t work that day. Others possibly cried at the scenes that unfolded before their eyes. Others were angry at the racial injustice they were witnessing. Yet other employees may have felt it was best to stay busy and work. Each of your employees was probably looking for guidance, direction, or an avenue to share their feelings.

As a leader, during times of crisis, it is best to be visible in the workplace. It is ok to have tough conversations at work! Show you care by visiting or calling your employees. Let people communicate their feelings in one-on-one or group sessions. Try to have conversations about racism, civil unrest, and our democracy. Offer up employee assistance programs. Rather than assume there is nothing we can do, talk about what your company can do. Recognize that some employees may be raw with emotion and you should be there to provide support. Be quick to listen and calmly respond in a sympathetic manner. If needed, solicit the help of your HR team or outside experts.

Whatever you decide to do, don’t do nothing. Don’t assume it is business as usual, because in times of crisis, it really isn’t.

The author, Chris Testa, is a top recruiter focusing on the utility and technology industries. He has an MBA and an engineering degree and has spent 30 years in the utility sector. He leads Testa Search Partners, a company headquartered in Atlanta and serving all 50 states. He can be reached at [email protected]