If you are a leader in this difficult time, go on video as soon as possible and talk to the people that look at you for an answer. Make it a recurrent thing, and most of all make it about them. How they feel, what they fear, what they need, how they are going to get out on the other side (with your help).
All the rest is unneeded.
Why do people keep going out and gather in groups when they are told to stay in and avoid in person contacts?
Because it is very difficult for each one of us to picture what could be, what could happen, the damage (or good) we might be bringing about. Until that is finally here and now, close.
And of course, because asking people to change habits, to let go of freedom, to do something that is not on their agenda, can only be effective if your communication is clear, straightforward, honest and transparent.
That’s what authority is based on today.
Both these points, by the way, are good reminders for all those working in marketing and seeking to make a change.
Our world has been moving at two speeds for a long time now.
The virus that is spreading in so many countries today is an example of what has already been happening for decades. Somewhere, something ignites, and by the time the fire is everywhere, old and local institutions are still arguing to figure out whose fault it was and how they can drop the ball onto someone else.
The lack of global leadership makes it impossible for countries to act in time and with a common strategy, and inaction is the fertile ground on which so many of the problems our society is facing can soar undisturbed.
In a moment of crisis, we need leaders that act responsibly.
Not in the sense that they need to come to us and tell that it’s their fault, or that they have made a decision and here is what we all have to do to comply. Responsibility is being accountable for your own actions, and so leading responsibly means that you are going to show us what to do, to live the restrictions, to take your own public steps towards what is necessary.
Giving orders and enforcing them is not the essence of leadership.
Be (the first) one of us, and we will follow.
Lifting others, empowering them, making them feel listened and appreciated, ensuring they can do their best with their skills and motivating them enough to go find learnings in their failures.
All of this is possible only if we allow it to happen to ourselves first.
“I am shit and you are great” is a narrative that does not serve any of the above purposes.
You've got this 