Leadership Under Pressure: Communication Is Key

Let's not kid ourselves: crises happen, even with contingency plans in place. And it's in high-pressure situations like these when true leadership is tested. Citing numerous case studies, the author provides a guide to help managers lead their companies when the unthinkable happens. It starts with taking responsibility and assembling the ideal management team for the crisis at hand. This means communicating in a personal way, with transparency, consistency and a long-term vision, so as to prevent uncertainty from crippling the organization. Companies also need to learn from a crisis, in order to prepare for the next storm brewing on the horizon -- because, like it or not, other crises will inevitably arise.