Pandemic leadership: ‘Keep it simple and focus on your people’

‘Be transparent about what’s going on—and that means the good, the bad and the ugly.’

While leadership is more important than ever during uncertain times, don’t overthink it, Jayne Hitman advises.

“Keep it simple and focus on your people,” says Hitman, national relationship manager for CUNA Creating Member Loyalty (CML), a comprehensive development program focused on increasing employee engagement and the member experience. “Be transparent about what’s going on—and that means the good, the bad and the ugly. The more people know, the more they can get behind the solution.”

The effects of the coronavirus (COVID-19) have made both employees and members anxious, and every day brings new uncertainties, Hitman says. Easing anxieties requires leaders to keep communication “intentional and focused.”

Meetings are a great example, she says. “Put regular meetings with employees on the calendar so people know they’re coming up. That’s being intentional and consistent with your time.”

 

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