Role of Leaders / Managers in Crisis Management
A sequence of sudden, unplanned and unexpected events leading to instability in the
organization and major unrest amongst the individuals is called as crisis.
Crisis generally arises on a short notice and causes major disturbances at the
workplace.
Leaders and managers play an extremely important role during crisis.
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One should lead from the front. Show confidence and steadiness. Take
complete charge of the situation.
Managers should have full control on the employees. They should know
what is happening around. Any issue neglected in the initial stage might be a
major concern later. Problems must be attended immediately. One should not
ignore even minor issues or wait for someone else to take the initiative. Any
issue left unattended might lead to crisis and major unrest later.
One should be alert at the workplace. A leader should be able to feel the
early signs of crisis and warn the employees against the negative
consequences of the same. It is his duty to take precautionary measures to
avoid an emergency situation. A leader should be able to foresee crisis. Such a
stage is also called as Signal Detection.
Leaders must try their level best to prevent crisis. Encourage effective
communication at the workplace. Let employees discuss issues amongst
themselves and come to the best possible alternative to overcome crisis.
Ask the employees not to panic at the time of crisis. Encourage them to face
the tough times with courage, determination and smile. Make them work as a
single unit. It is the duty of the leader to provide a sense of direction to the
employees.
The leaders should interact with the employees more often. Let them feel
that you are there for them. Impart necessary crisis management trainings to
the employees.
Planning is essential to avoid emergency situations. Learn to take quick
decisions. Make sure everyone at the workplace is well informed about
emergency situations.
Identify the important processes and systems which should keep
functioning for the smooth running of the organization. Develop alternate
plans with correct and accurate information.
Don’t let negativity creep in the organization. Motivate the employees to
believe in themselves and the organization. It is essential to trust each other
during such situations. Take strict action against those spreading rumours and
trying to tarnish organization’s image.
Don’t avoid stakeholders, external parties and most importantly media. Come
out, meet them and explain the whole situation. Ignoring people makes things
worse. Develop strong partnerships with external parties and ask for help.
Never lose hope. Be a strong pillar of support for your team members. They
should be able to fall back on you.
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Leaders should strive hard to come out of tough times as soon as possible.
Learn to take risks. Clarify the roles and responsibilities of the individuals
during this time.
Once the organization is out of crisis, it is the leader’s duty to communicate
the lessons learnt so that employees do not commit same mistakes again.
Work hard and relive your organization’s image. Adapt well to changes and
new situations.
http://www.managementstudyguide.com/role-of-leaders-in-crisis-management.htm