Leadership in a Crisis

As the global pandemic surrounds us, effective leadership becomes more important than ever. What leadership traits do the most effective leaders demonstrate in times of disruption? There is no one-size-fits-all strategy; rather one must tailor their approach and style to what fits them and works best for their organization.  

Here are seven tips to help leaders be more effective:

1. Maintain composure. The capacity to handle stress and remain calm, composed and focused in the middle of chaos is critical. Your team will notice, and they will respond accordingly.
   
   
2. Be human. When things are unstable, we look to leaders to acknowledge that they’re navigating the uncertain terrain right there with us. Be vulnerable and authentic. Customers need reassuring, employees need encouragement, and investors need support. Leaders willing to bring these qualities to the forefront will deepen relationships and forge connections that will endure beyond any passing crisis.
   
   
3. Keep listening. Listening carefully to all your employees and customers is essential in times of crisis. Everyone needs to be genuinely heard and considered. “How can I help?” can be one of the most powerful statements you can ask your stakeholders.
    
4. Be a strong and frequent communicator. Effectiveness at interacting with groups and individuals in a wide variety of contexts and situations, including soliciting and clearly and concisely sharing important information is crucial. The better you are at communicating in a professional and timely manner, the more others will start to listen and pay attention to what you have to say.
   
   
5. Keep an open mind. Possessing the ability to look at an event from multiple perspectives and “think outside the box” before deciding on specific contingency plans and solutions is vital. An effective leader will be flexible and consider all outcomes and then act accordingly. It’s always OK to take some time to think. That is your job as a leader.
   
   
6. Maintain company culture. An effective leader will continue to connect to the workforce. Finding creative and thoughtful ways to maintain personal connection is incredibly important. Understand that you may have to shift your strategy to engage with your employees and set expectations virtually.
   
   
7. Lead by example. Leaders set and guide the direction by helping others see what lies ahead and rising to the challenges. They encourage and inspire those around them. Do your best and you will gain the respect of your team. 

Now is the time for leadership. Embolden yourself to step up and make strong decisions with empathy, solidarity and trust. Lead with your mind and your heart. We’ll come out of this as better leaders and collectively formulate a robust plan for recovery. 

As president and CEO of the Melbourne Regional Chamber of Commerce, Michael Ayers is a strategic leader with experience managing government agencies, political campaigns and community-based organizations. He has spent over 17 years in government relations, management, and political marketing throughout Washington, D.C., Illinois, Tallahassee and Brevard County. Michael started his career as a congressional aide and spent several years running political campaigns.

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