This site uses cookies to store information on your computer. Some are essential to make our site work; others help us improve the user experience. By using the site, you consent to the placement of these cookies. Read our privacy policy to learn more.

People

How to reassure your staff in times of uncertainty Logo cgma

  Samantha White |   Free |   AICPA and CIMA |   08 Jul 2016 |   CGMA Magazine

During uncertain times, communication gaps can be filled with rumour, undermining a leader's credibility and sapping morale. Here's how to get out in front of an issue.

Topics covered:
  • Management accounting: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Management accounting: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • Employee benefit plan auditing: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Employee benefit plan auditing: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • Governmental auditing: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Governmental auditing: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • Financial accounting & reporting: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Financial accounting & reporting: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • Assurance: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Assurance: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • Not-for-profit: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Not-for-profit: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • IT management & assurance: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • IT management & assurance: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • Firm practice management: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Firm practice management: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • Tax: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Tax: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • Forensic & valuation services: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Forensic & valuation services: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • Fair value measurement: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Fair value measurement: People: Communication, Intermediate
  • Personal financial planning: People: Influence, Intermediate
  • Personal financial planning: People: Communication, Intermediate

4 Comments/Reflections

Damian Szczepanski

Damian Szczepanski Jan 2020

These are really good advices which should be in use in all types of communication.
However, the best advice out of those presented in the article is to not make promises we cannot keep. Unfortunately, some managers in critical situation are showing off rather than telling like it is. At the end of the story, it is always bad strategy.


John McSwaine

John McSwaine Mar 2019

Contains advice which is easy to remember and uncomplicated.
I will definitely use the recommendations in all communications - not just in times of uncertainty. It is important to build and maintain trust in my team and I can see how important honest well prepared communication can help to achieve it.
Kevin Ryan

Kevin Ryan Aug 2018

Leaders reassuring employees in difficult times is very important. 9 points listed are useful identifiers of what is expected from a good leader.
If you believe in the organisation you are leading, then you will lead it through good an bad times
Michael Hall

Michael Hall Oct 2016

Company announced that the Finance team would move from Brisbane to Denver.

Without any company communication I did set up weekly meetings with the 4 staff involved.
The article advise being up front and honest which I was.
I also had individual meetings with each team member, one in particular wanted to know everything she could. I gave her answers to what I knew but nothing more. I also advised on my prior knowledge in situations such as this. Although not as helpful as the individual would have wanted in did keep our relationship working for the 8 weeks the transition went on.

Allowing all team members to have their say certainly allowed for peoples personal requirements to be aired if not completely satisfied.


Elements of the article help me confirm that some of my approach was valid and possibly best practice.