When a crisis hits, suppressing or obscuring bad news is often an impulsive reaction. Leaders can even exacerbate a crisis if bad news is marginalized, unaddressed, or ignored until it’s too late.
If you don’t frequently communicate with your key constituency, somebody else will. In the absence of honest information, your employees can develop their own perceptions of the problem and its implications.
Idea for Impact: Wise managers recognize the power of transparency and self-disclosure. Speak up early and candidly. If necessary, take a reputational hit today by disclosing problems; it’ll earn dividends. With a candid appraisal, people can turn their attention away from assigning blame to understanding the problem’s nature and helping you develop solutions.