True leader

Be A True Leader: How To Communicate During A Crisis

We are in need of authentic leadership now more than ever.

All of us can think of one outstanding leader in our heads. Maybe we admired them because of how they could silence a crowd. We might have loved them because they lead by example.

With all different kinds of leadership styles, people all over the world have stepped to help those in need. They’ve gathered crowds, and taken on some of the most difficult obstacles.

You’re probably now wondering how to grow into a true leader. It takes a lot of work, but we are here to help. Keep reading below on how to be a leader and how to communicate during a crisis.

Do Your Research

One part of how to be a great leader is constantly learning and listening. Before you start speaking to large groups of people, it’s important to understand the information you’re relaying.

Spend some time reading research articles, news pieces, and talking to those around you. Gathering information from all perspectives will help you develop a well-rounded view of the world around you.

Understanding different perspectives will also help you relate to different demographics. Being able to relate to someone will allow for better communication.

Be Honest, Be Positive

During a crisis, most people jump straight into panic mode. False news starts spreading, people sink into negative headspaces, and everything seems to turn into utter chaos.

Being honest is one of the best leadership traits you could display. Don’t fight fire with fire by spreading false hope and information. People will see right through you.

However, there is a way to deliver real news while remaining positive, even if the news itself isn’t great. It’s all in the delivery.

Present real facts with a future-focused perspective. While things may seem overwhelming now, offer initiatives you’re starting that will help people get back on track. Encourage the people around you, and offer a helping hand.

Whether you’re the mayor of your town or the owner of a local coffee shop, you have an impact on those around you. People will appreciate honesty and positivity more than you know.

Establish Open Lines of Communication

Now that you’ve spread knowledge out in the world, maintain open lines of communication with those around you. When learning how to lead, it’s important to learn how to communicate.

No matter what you do, you’ll have people that disagree and agree with you. You’ll love hearing from supporters, but it won’t feel as great hearing from those who put you down.

Offer ways for people to reply to what you’ve said or addressed. Thank everyone, good or bad, that replies back to you. A true leader listens to all.

If you as if it’s necessary, privately speak to those who share different opinions than you. Ask them why they feel differently, and attempt to understand where they’re coming from. Never put someone down for disagreeing with you.

A great way to have conversations with people is through social media. Read comments and answer direct messages. You can even create polls and share other people’s thoughts.

Create a business email for people to reach if they have concerns. If it’s safe, hold community meetings. You can even create virtual community meetings people can join through a link.

Own Your Mistakes

Because you’re human, you’ll make mistakes. Because you’re a leader, you’ll be in the spotlight.

It’s inevitable to slip up and say the wrong things or take the wrong action. People will shine a light on the issue so it’s crucial to own your mistakes. Be honest about what you did.

If you’ve made a mistake in private, have the integrity to address it. Whether it’s delivering a private apology or taking the error as a learning opportunity, how you react to error says a lot about you as a leader.

Once you admit your error, actively do your best to improve yourself. Educate yourself and take action to correct any wrongs you may have committed. By doing this, people will learn to trust you.

Build a Team

Every strong leader has been surrounded by a strong team.

Their team is there to not only support them but to hold them accountable. They’ll double-check your decisions and advise you against any potential problems.

Having a team will also help you feel more secure in your decision-making and will give you greater confidence. It always feels good to be surrounded by people who want to make a positive change in the community. This support will feel even better in the midst of a crisis.

Lead by Example

Whatever you ask people to do, make sure you’re doing it too. A true leader leads by example.

If you aren’t following your own rules or suggestions, how do you expect other people to? You’ll quickly lose support.

Take some time in the week to volunteer somewhere. Get your hands dirty, and work together with groups within the community. Sacrifice your time for a greater purpose.

This will encourage others to do the same, and you’ll be able to go home knowing you helped someone, especially during a crisis. You’d be surprised at the connections you can make while volunteering during your free time.

Keep Improving

Never stop learning. Never stop developing greater habits for yourself.

Learning how to lead is never easy and always comes with challenges. With these challenges comes life lessons. Take advantage of the lessons.

Write down goals you’d like to reach and then think about how you’ll reach them. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone.

It’s Time to Be a True Leader

A major crisis creates panic within communities. It’s time to step up as a true leader to help those around you. Make sure you follow the advice above when developing your leadership skills.

Make sure to practice good communication, and always be honest with those around you. Take time to volunteer out in the community, and develop genuine relationships with people. Never forget to keep growing and improving.

Do you want to become a better leader? Check out the rest of our site and the leadership programs we offer. Contact us with any questions about the programs.