When trouble strikes, we need leaders more than ever. In the face of adversity, true leadership shines through, not by shielding followers from reality, but by offering transparency, hope, and real participation. Leaders must show the path to a better future, even if this path is tough and fraught with uncertainty and risk. 

Vulnerability and Transparency are about trust and solutions

Vulnerability and Transparency are not about exposing problems but about fostering trust and discussing solutions

We hear a lot about leaders needing to be open, vulnerable,  and transparent, and it’s true. But being open doesn’t mean scaring everyone with bad news. Transparency is not helpful if it doesn’t come with a plan to fix things. Even when times are tough, leaders have to point to the light at the end of the tunnel. It doesn’t mean hiding or minimizing the tough stuff; it means being real about it but also saying, “Here’s how we’re gonna get through it.” 

Consider Winston Churchill, one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century who led Britain during World War II. On June 4, 1940, following a devastating retreat and the fall of France, Churchill presented a raw account to the House of Commons. He did not shy away from the gravity of the situation. Yet, he laid out Britain’s strategy and alliances, rallying the nation with a promise of unwavering defense and the famous words: “We shall fight on the beaches… we shall never surrender.” Churchill’s candor, coupled with a promise of dogged resilience, exemplified leadership in its truest form.

A leader’s positive attitude sets the tone for the entire team

Today’s work culture celebrates authenticity and encourages “bringing your whole self to work.” However, as leaders, the energy we bring into the room is pivotal. Our behavior sets the tone for our team’s morale and outlook. 

I remember a day when personal challenges impacted my usual demeanor at work, inadvertently signaling to my team that trouble was on the horizon for our division. Thankfully, a perceptive team member alerted me to the misunderstanding, allowing me to address and quash the brewing rumors swiftly. That experience was a turning point for me, reinforcing the power of a leader’s positive presence. It’s not about masking our struggles; it’s about showing resilience and the capacity to navigate through tough times together.

Guideline for leading during tough times: 

• Talk first: If you don’t tell people what’s happening, they’ll start guessing and spreading rumors and that’s never good
• Show the way: Don’t just talk about problems, tell people how you’re going to fix them.
• Work together: If the answer isn’t clear, get a group of people to help find it. Tell everyone about this group and what they’re doing.
•  Stay positive: Leaders need to keep their heads up. If you’re feeling down, it can make everyone else feel down, even if it’s not about work.

Being a leader means being the one who lights the way. When things are hard, that’s when a leader shows what they’re made of.