Dealing with Crisis: The Power of a Strong Team

“One of the biggest defects in life is the inability to ask for help.”—Robert Kiyosaki

In law enforcement, "naked" means working without backup—flying without a net. This is far from ideal in any crisis situation. As leaders, we must remember that you don’t have to do it alone. You can’t, and you shouldn’t.?

The truth is that navigating through a crisis requires more than just individual strength; it demands a solid team built on strategic relationships.

Building and maintaining good relationships is more than just office politics—it’s essential to survival. I prioritized forming connections throughout my career, even in the most challenging political environments. Why? Because relationships are everything. With the proper backup, you can build an empire. These relationships could be the things that turn the tables in your favor when you need it most.

In the FBI, rapport-building isn’t just encouraged—it’s a critical skill. Investigations and crime prevention programs involve multiple moving parts and require collaboration. No one solves a case alone. And just like in law enforcement, in leadership, you can’t prevent chaos or resolve crises without trusted partners who have your back.

But here’s the key: don’t stay in your bubble.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned in the FBI is that diversity in your network is crucial. Your close friends are great for Friday night drinks, but crisis management requires more than just your inner circle. Networks of people from different backgrounds, with varied skills and diverse perspectives, are essential. They challenge you, expand your horizons, and offer support in ways you might not expect.

Think of it this way—just as a mom's network can help with last-minute childcare, or a tennis club contact can connect you with a top business leader, a diverse team in a crisis can provide the unique insights and resources you need to succeed. A well-rounded network is your safety net.

So, how do you build this strong team?

Start by identifying individuals with complementary skills and perspectives. For example, if you're handling a financial crisis, you'll need not only finance experts, but also someone who understands communications so your message is clear and credible. Look for people who bring something different to the table—whether it’s expertise you lack, a different way of thinking, or connections that can open new doors. Build relationships based on trust and mutual respect.

Trust is crucial in team building because it ensures that team members feel confident in each other’s abilities and are willing to rely on one another during high-pressure situations. It’s also essential for them to trust that you have their back and will support their decisions.? When trust is established, team members communicate more openly, share critical information, and collaborate more effectively. But don’t wait for a crisis to strike before bringing your team together. Make it a priority to ensure everyone on your team understands each other's strengths and weaknesses. Encourage regular interactions and collaboration so that when a crisis hits, your team can operate as a cohesive unit.?

After each major challenge the team works through, initiate post-crisis reports to assess what worked, what didn’t, and how you can improve. These debriefs are essential for refining your approach and preparing for future crises. A strong team isn't just about having the right people—it's about fostering an environment where trust is built, everyone can contribute their best, and the team continuously improves.

Don't just survive a crisis — be unstoppable.

I hope you have enjoyed the “Leading through Crisis” series of articles. Remember, a crisis doesn’t have to leave you feeling exposed and vulnerable. With quick action and getting the water out of the boat, the power of compartmentalization, and having the right team by your side, you won’t just survive a crisis — you’ll be unstoppable.?

About Gina L. Osborn

Gina’s career began in the U.S. Army’s Counterintelligence Program investigating high-profile espionage cases in Germany at the end of the Cold War. After graduating from the FBI Academy in 1996, Gina became the only FBI agent on a task force addressing Asian organized crime in Orange County. Post-9/11, she coordinated counterterrorism efforts in Los Angeles and led the FBI’s Cyber and Computer Forensics Program, notably investigating the Sony Pictures hack. In 2022, as LA Metro’s Chief Safety Officer, she reduced violent crime by 34% before being unlawfully terminated after a whistleblower complaint. Now an international speaker and host of Lead Like a Lady podcast, Gina shares insights on authentic leadership, leading through chaos, crisis, and change, and rising to the top in male-dominated fields.

To learn more about Gina’s speaking topics and book her for your next event, visitwww.ginalosborn.com.