crisis communication

The need for leadership is at an all-time high these days, and a quick glance at your inbox, the news, or social media will show you there’s no lack of individuals stepping forward to fill the void with commentary and advice. Effective leadership, though, is another story all together.

As someone who has taught communications for over 25 years and who taught Crisis Communication again this semester, I’ve been feeling a bit like a character from one particular story as I’ve listened to different leaders communicate in the media and within various organizations. 

You’re probably familiar with Goldilocks, the judicious heroine of the fairy tale involving three bears. Like Goldilocks trying to find the right oatmeal to eat, I’ve been listening to find the leaders whose communication is “just right.” And like her, I’m finding multiple options that range from too hot to too cold before discovering leaders whose communication is just right.

Communication that’s too hot

Leaders struggle with confidence in the best of times, let alone in a crisis. Uncertainty breeds anxiety for everyone, and leaders are not exempt from this. How aware leaders are about their own thinking about a situation determines their effectiveness at leading others through the crisis with reasoned response rather than panicked reaction.