Crisis Leadership Skills on Display in Ukraine -- What We Can Learn

Two years ago, I reflected on my time in West Africa during the Ebola epidemic and the leadership by US Ambassador Alex Laskaris who demonstrated an array of key skills:

• Stay positive and avoid panic and fear 

• Focus on facts and understand the reality of the situation

• Assemble the best talent and listen to their advice

• Be inclusive and engage others to facilitate an effective response

• Embrace transparency and openness to reduce rumors and confusion

• Communicate regularly, sharing what you know

• Support and encourage your team.

Building trust is critical in a crisis. Leaders who project a positive, engaging approach will be more effective in rallying people to the cause. 

I recently came upon an excellent piece in Forbes by Edward Segal who writes: “To say [Ukrainian President Zelensky] has important lessons for all business leaders about communicating and responding to a crisis would be an understatement.” Among the points he emphasizes:

• Leadership comes from deep within – it is built on character and courage.     

• Grit is built through struggle (there is no easy way)

• Leaders can come from anywhere – an important point I emphasize in all my leadership trainings

• Being seen is a key trait that Zelensky has clearly mastered!

• Communicate with humility and empathy

• Authenticity is critical, being real and not an actor (which is ironic given Zelensky’s background)

• Lead by example.

What about you: when a crisis strikes, will you be ready?  Have you done your homework, when it comes to embracing these key leadership traits?  What specific steps could you take to up your leadership game?

We each have an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, including our own. Don’t underestimate your impact! 

You can read more on this topic in my recent column in New Hampshire Business Review: https://read.nhbr.com/nh-business-review#2022/04/08/?article=3957240