Sometimes, communication can truly be a big concern. As local and national authorities struggle to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, and businesses tackle the myriad issues it raises on every front, good employee communications can fall by the wayside. Yet, what employees need more than anything right now is to know just what is going on, how it might affect them, and what they are expected to do.
Precise, timely and relevant information is critical during any crisis and emergency. It is suggested that crisis communication should be an integral part of an effective communications plan. All businesses should have a crisis communication plan to ensure that accurate information is provided during an emergency to minimize problems caused by misleading communications.
In other words, clear, candid, and ongoing communications are essential. Much of the content will be unique to the concerns of your organization, of course, but it will almost certainly be critically important to address employees’ basic questions about policies and protocols.
In addition, few employers will be unaffected by the economic ramifications of the pandemic, and this can be a huge stressor for employees, who will be worrying about their jobs and, in many cases, their retirement funds. As much as possible, you’d want to share how the situation might affect (or is already affecting) your organization, what is being done to address it, and how this might impact employees. It is nearly always the case that knowing the truth, even if it is bad or uncertain news, is better than being kept in the dark.
There are numerous theories about how leaders should communicate during a crisis. Two theories stand out most prominently. The first is to ensure every communication is as accurate as possible. Given that crises unfold over time; this would mean withholding certain messages for some time until details are fully ironed out. The second is to be as open and transparent as possible.
Be timely
Especially in a situation like this, communications need to be ongoing, and information needs to be regularly updated.
Be candid
Share as much as you can and don’t hesitate to say not just what you do know, but what you don’t, if possible, letting them know when the information might be available.
Be interactive
To the extent possible, give employees avenues to ask questions and receive specific, precise responses.
We are going through an intensely challenging time. Strong, thorough, open, and ongoing communication can make a huge difference in how we all get through it. Don’t let your employees down.