What ALL Leaders Need to Be Doing Right Now
Constant, consistent communication is key.
Too often in times of crisis leaders will withdraw, freeze or put out mixed and muddled messages.
Leaders withdraw because they are too busy focusing on the crisis at hand in their own world right when they need to put the needs of their people before their own.
Leaders freeze because they are fearful of getting the messaging wrong so are waiting for greater clarity or a solution to come forward before communicating anything with their people.
Leaders who put out muddled and mixed messages tend to be overly reactive and often led by ego of how they will be perceived rather than focusing on the right thing to do.
We are in a time of great uncertainty, confusion and fear. We are also experiencing incredible generosity, humour and hope. We need our leaders to stay strong, seek their own support while continuing to talk to us, not at us.
We need leaders to understand that everyone’s circumstance is unique, everyone’s mental health is heightened and that messaging that passes judgment or tells others how they should think and feel can create greater isolation and resentment.
Constant communication means sharing formally and informally, even when you have nothing to say. It is reaching out at all levels through multiple platforms even if it’s just to say ‘hi’. It’s sharing official messages, giving well wishes, offering support, listening, taking on feedback and suggestions, giving and receiving ideas, and always listening, unconditionally with an understanding some people will be heightened in different at this time.
Consistent communication means putting your own ego and fears aside and ensuring that all levels of communication come from a place of empathy, non-judgement, honesty and openness. It is not about providing answers and solutions if none exist. It is not about making promises or suggestions you may not be able to keep. It is about treading lightly and nimbly, taking it one moment at a time and allowing for dialogue rather than directives.
Leaders need to keep one eye on now and one eye on the future. We are in unprecedented times. This too will pass, but leadership legacy will linger. Leadership impacts real people. Some leaders care deeply and it shows. Others seem to care more for themselves. What kind of leader are you? How is this playing out right now?
Service Leader People and Culture at AlburyCity
4 年Thanks for sharing Maree, l can definitely relate.
Author of 'Dancing with the Bull.' The corporate odyssey of Luke Glass, a reluctant journeyman.
4 年Leadership, true leadership, reveals itself when the game breaks down to such an extent that there is seemingly nowhere else to go.
Chief Executive Officer at Family Life
4 年Great advice Maree. ??
People & Culture
4 年Fantastic piece Maree!
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4 年Thanks for sharing Maree McKeown My workplace has been fantastic with stepping up communications with more regular all of staff meetings and really supportive messaging that not only speaks of genuine care but is followed up by aligned action. Hoping others are experiencing the same.