Reset direction decisively
A crisis may require more than incremental adjustments. Leaders may need to change the business model, redirect resources, or redesign operations quickly. Identify the few priorities with the greatest impact and make sure the leadership team understands them in the same way.
Communicate for the moment
Increase the clarity and relevance of communication as conditions change. Explain the threat, the decisions, and the implications for people maintaining operations as well as those leading new initiatives.
Trust cannot be created instantly when sacrifices become necessary. Consistent behavior before a crisis gives leaders credibility during it. Effective crisis leadership also considers the longer-term effects of urgent decisions on employees and organizational culture. Protecting today’s performance should preserve the organization’s ability to succeed after the immediate threat has passed.