I was asked on Monday if I know a leader who over-communicates.
Honestly? I’ve neither known nor often been one who’s communicated enough. It’s a top 3 concern in every leadership team I’ve worked with. Often number 1.
(Though I have known many a leader who sometimes talked too much! Guilty as charged)
How?
First, frequently. An unfortunate human tendency is to interpret silence as hiding bad news.
Be clear. Sow certainty, not doubt.
Be confident. Bring security, not fear.
Be human.This crisis is making people jittery, and not just financially. Be mindful and communicate appropriately.
Make it two-way. It is as important for people to hear as to be heard. Especially when they’re worried.
Be visible. (Remember President Bush’s disappearance after 9/11?) While working remotely, combine teamwide scheduled comms with office-hour, drop-in type of availability, and personal calls. Mix it up with a phone – remember those?
How to make that all happen? Pull together the strands of everything I’ve talked about in this series so far. I discuss this in more detail, as well as the mechanics of communicating more effectively in this video.
{Video 5 of 5 on Leading in Crisis – Communication}
To talk to Iyas about how to protect your business through the crisis and build a stronger and more purposeful one coming out of it, just book a time to chat.