Regardless of gender, as a leader of any organization, what is critical is effective, clear messaging that dispels confusion and misinformation that can run rampant amidst turmoil. The leader has to be both decisive (taking immediate action) and relatable (message has to be relevant to the people and resonate with them), calm and consistent, clear and compassionate. Along with meeting social expectations, an important criterion is deferring to the experts on the subject of the crisis. This demonstrates humility and wisdom. Next is the virtue of inclusiveness and the willingness to collaborate with other entities to serve the people. The hallmark of a great leader is one who leads with “both resolve and kindness”.
In an April 22 Harvard Business Review article on the psychology of effective leadership, the author says “When a leader’s appeal rests on a vision alone, leadership is not whole. And the limitations of such visionary leadership become painfully obvious in times of crisis, uncertainty, or radical change.” Being a visionary leader is appealing and necessary. But that quality alone is limiting in a crisis. In such a time there has to be a holding ability before mindfully moving forward. How the leader makes sense of what’s happening, contains it (soothes people’s distress while staying rooted in reality) and interprets it (so that others can make sense of the chaos), will determine the effectiveness of the leader.
The leader both reassures and orients people. Direction is critical. “Holding is a more obscure and seldom celebrated facet of leadership than vision, but no less important.” Providing a rosy picture of the future, however realistic is not enough. The employees do well when they work closely with coworkers and even better when the leader is willing to jump in to work alongside. There is a sense of belonging and a stake in the company.
A recent example would be when Norway’s leader closed down schools, she reassured the children of her nation that it is OK to be scared. She demonstrated holding. It is about empathizing and listening intently to the need of the hour. “To face difficult circumstances, master new conditions, and develop in the process, we need holding from leaders and organizations. And we need to hold each other.”
Whether you are a single parent, a leader in the community, a business owner, a hospital administrator or a senior executive in a multi-national firm, you are leading a team. Learn from this crisis. Recognize your impact potential and learn the art of holding. You will multiply your effectiveness, offer a psychologically safe environment and motivate your team to fly free and unfettered.