Communication in a Crisis and the Importance of Authenticity and Transparency

Communication is at the heart of leadership and management. It is how we set expectations, provide feedback, and ensure that the work of the organizations we lead is in alignment with larger institutional or organizational priorities. Communication works at high levels through annual reports and goal setting, but it is also the backbone of day-to-day teamwork and conversation. During a crisis, particularly a prolonged one such as the COVID-19 pandemic, any breakdowns in communication will be magnified. When we are under stress, we tend to be more reactive than we would likely be during calmer times. Clear, calm, and regular communication is needed to assure staff that the boat will stay afloat in the storm.Transparency and authenticity are key to effective communication. Authentic leadership embodies the empathy, transparency, and focus on the long term that are needed to endure the uncertainty of a global health and economic crisis. This article explores aspects of authentic leadership as they relate to employee engagement and trust.