Building Trust in Crisis

Yesterday I read an article and posed a question that was triggered in my head regarding crisis and leadership.

There are three things that need to be considered when dealing with crisis. OK. I wish there were only three things, there are millions. So lets just call these guidelines.

Speed :: The speed at which you react to crisis is a big indicator of your concern. Not the only indicator, but it is an important measure of how much you care. When a church has a bogged down decision making process, it can be difficult to move quick when it is needed.

Transparency :: The urge to show strength and control is a strong one among modern leadership, especially those driven by personality. The reality is that we are human and we make mistakes, which is why we have a crisis in the first place. So lets not add fuel to the fire by faking our way through the crisis, instead lets approach the crisis with an open heart, mind and hand.

Simplicity :: Once a crisis is in full bloom, people are looking for a reason to distrust leadership even more and when leaders present a complex solution it is too easily interpreted as being shady. Avoid the compromise that sells everyone short, and make the tough call that in the end is right.

Crisis is a time to show your true colors as a leader and presents opportunity for massive spiritual growth for all involved.