Leadership
...on information provided by G. Klann (2003) Crisis Leadership
Leadership in Crisis:
Nothing tests a leader like a crisis. While the highly charged and often dramatic events surrounding a crisis can profoundly affect the people in an organization and even threaten its survival, there are actions a leader can take before, during and after to reduce the duration and impact of difficult situations. In this session you will learn that effective crisis leadership is comprised of three things - communication, clarity of vision and values, and caring relationships. Leaders who develop, pay attention to, and practice these qualities go a long way toward handling the human dimension of a crisis. Leaders must be prepared to manage a crisis not only within their own organization, but also within the greater orbit of their influence - clients and customers, the surrounding community, stockholders, suppliers, vendors, local government, concerned organizations, activist groups and the media.
What is a Crisis?
Greek term, krisis “to sift or separate”
Can happen anytime, to anyone, anywhere
Crisis severity depends on impact on leadership, workers, consumers, etc.
No borders or boundaries
Unpredictable (to most)
Global economy leaves rippling effects
Includes the catalyst but also events caused by catalyst
You know you have a crisis when…
There is:
A high degree of instability
Potential for extreme negative results that endanger continuity
A critical period that brings surprise and dramatic change
It is not “business as usual”
3 Levels of Crisis
Level 1
Public embarrassment
Mission success is threatened
Perceived unethical acts
Politically incorrect acts (i.e. sexual harassment or racial discrimination charges)
Level 2 (one or combination of)
Personal injury
Some property loss
Possible loss of life
Potential for serious damage to the...
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