4 Ways Leaders Become Role Models and Gain Trust When Communicating about COVID-19

The Simple Truth

COVID-19 and Leadership

We are experiencing one of the most challenging times. The angst of the public and how we respond dramatically depends not only on what our leaders tell us; but also on their actions. While there have been other outbreaks and other health scares, Coronavirus or COVID- 19 seems to be more challenging, in part because of how government leaders have handled the simple truth.

While the scientific and medical experts are tackling the pandemic of the Coronavirus, they are also fighting the fake news "infodemic" that, in today's times, can spread faster than any wildfire. Media leaders are dealing with this heightened "demic" while also attempting to provide the best leadership and guidance for their employees. From the first plague, in the 17th century, rumors have always started. With the distribution of newspapers, information traveled slowly. The invention of the radio moved the story a little faster, TV accelerated the pace, and social media propelled the speed of information and, unfortunately, misinformation, to an exponential level. Today, countries are spreading stories to blame other countries; politics has distorted the day. Billionaires are allegedly starting the virus, and nationals are trying to squash racism. We are hearing the fake news and wondering why it is coming from our leaders. The believability of any narrative shared depends on the creditability of the messenger.

Where does that leave us? Some of the words used to describe the information regarding the Coronavirus, being shared by our country's leaders, are: confusing, ridiculous, hilarious, overwhelming, outrageous, and frustrating. We don't know what or whom to believe.

Should I shake hands?

Should I wash my hands? 

Should I do an elbow bump?

Should I go to work?

Should I work from home?

Should I be around elders?

Should I be around children?

Should I fly?

Should I take a cruise?

How many are affected? How many have died? How long will this last? Why aren't we getting tested? The more we don't know the more questions that arise, the more primary leaders, whom we look to for straight talk and direction, give us mixed. The more complicated the situation becomes, the more conflicting the messages have become.

When we were young, we looked to our parents to give us leadership and direction. We expected our teachers to guide us. We seek our religious leaders to bring us together. We've grown accustomed to looking for an authority figure to make sense of the unknown and give us direction. We want someone who will comfort us when we were distressed. That same emotional need permeates throughout our life. Today, what we are looking for that comfort from our leaders, from the adults in the room - simple truth.

Many are angry: "Why aren't they telling me the truth about what's going on?" Many are anticipating: "I've had the test, or I know I need the test when can I have it?" Then there is disgust:" if they would just stop talking about it." Others are happy: they tested negative. Others are surprised: "Oh, not me; I feel fine." Others are anxious: "will I get the virus." Others are depressed: they're in quarantine. Yet others are sad: because they have lost loved ones. And above all, there is fear: the fear of the unknown is the most stressful of all. At any time, this roller-coaster of emotions may touch us all.

To allay many of the emotions, great leaders act as role models and gain trust in these four ways: displaying a calm demeanor, providing correct information, delivering coherent messaging, and providing clear direction. They make the complicated simple. What an ideal time for leaders throughout the world to unite in support of providing leadership that will help to build the trust and psychological safety needed during a time of uncertainty and chaos? The challenge presented by the COVID- 19 is not over. For reassurance, we must have faith and trust our leaders are giving their best efforts to find the solutions very complex circumstances while sharing with the masses, the simple truth.