Leading in Quarantine: 4 Do’s and Don’ts

In times of crisis, communication from leadership is crucial to the integrity of the organization and the people in it. Depending in which part of the world you reside, more than likely you have recently been in quarantine for a significant amount of time as we #stayhome in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19. Leaders have been called to action and forced to navigate uncharted territories as they adjust to the communication challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As we continue to sift through theories and projections for the future, how can leaders sustain momentum as we ask, “How does one lead in quarantine?”

Here are four do’s and don’ts for leaders to follow:

Do’s:

• Be Accessible and Present. Leaders cannot expect commitment, they have to inspire it. An effective communication process begins with leadership accessibility and presence. When leaders listen deeply, they discover shared value, meaning, and purpose. Listen to others.
• Share Vision. Developing a formulated vision will serve as a guide in communication efforts. Not only does leadership bear the brunt of communicating vision, but they are ultimately responsible for modeling the way forward and inspiring others to adjust accordingly.
• Plan for the Future. Effective leaders plan for the future by communicating vision, expectations, and a way forward with clarity. Developing a plan sets clear standards from leadership and communicates a focus of trajectory support.
• Increase Connections. The threat of leadership survival is contingent on an array of uncontrollable and controlled variables. It is within reach of leaders to look outward, step out of comfort zones, and adapt to current conditions especially in their communication styles. Hosting face-to-face meetings have been replaced with virtual meetings; announcements and emails are being recorded to connect. These types of virtual connections can enhance leadership dialogue and engagement.

Don’ts:

• Under or Overreact. Know the facts before you react, or worse, have no reaction at all. Once all the facts are collected, review data before publishing. One of the worst things leadership can do is present inaccuracies or false information. This affects credibility, reliability, and presents distrust in an already vulnerable environment. Remain steadfast and strong.
• Place Blame Elsewhere. It is important for anyone to accept blame when needed, but before the blame game begins, messages about the future need to be collaborated and communicated in a positive manner. Who can we blame for strategic communication pandemic plans not being readily available for world leaders to refer? Let us focus on a stronger future together and how we will persevere despite the challenges of quarantine rather than shift blame elsewhere.
• Withdraw from Responsibility. One of the main responsibilities of leaders is accountability. This is broad, but functioning as a leader involves decision-making, taking action, accessing needs, listening to others, and assuming overall responsibility. Possessing the stamina to become a better leader and accepting the importance of investing in followers is crucial to leadership development. Do not withdraw from your leadership responsibilities when the going gets tough. Stay the course, and watch your leadership skills grow.
• Lack Concern. Quarantine has affected most all areas of our lives. Businesses, schools, etc. have been temporarily shut down in efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. We have all been stretched emotionally, mentally, and financially as the end to our “new normal” is very unclear. Leaders who express lack of concern for this multi-complex sociological challenge run a dangerous course of action. This is the time to express empathy, kindness, and show compassion to those you lead. Encourage and inspire by showcasing a spirit of community and concern.

By following these four simple do’s and don’ts, you are well on your way to successfully leading during a time of struggle.