Jacinda Ardern's Crisis Tips: 3 Lessons for Leaders

As leaders across the globe face the ongoing challenge of the coronavirus pandemic, a range of communication strategies have emerged. One approach that has stood out is that of New Zealand's Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, who has been widely praised for her ability to connect with the public. Early in the pandemic, Ardern quickly enforced strict lockdown measures, followed by extensive testing, contact tracing, and isolation protocols. However, what sets her leadership apart is not just the policies but the way she communicates with New Zealanders, using empathy and emotional intelligence to build a strong connection. This has resulted in an 80% approval rating, according to research by Colmar Brunton, showing the high level of trust New Zealanders have in her leadership. The same survey found that 90% of the population is adhering to government guidelines aimed at curbing the spread of the virus.

So, how can business leaders take a page from Ardern’s playbook and apply her communication techniques within their organizations? Let’s break down three key lessons.

1. Leverage Familiar Communication Platforms

One of the ways Ardern successfully engages with the public is by using widely accessible platforms like Facebook Live. She holds live Q&A sessions where citizens can ask questions and receive immediate responses, all through a platform that 60% of New Zealanders use regularly. This familiarity makes it easier for the public to connect with her message and participate in the conversation.

For business leaders, it’s essential to use communication tools that are already familiar to their teams. If your organization lacks a comprehensive communication platform, consider adopting one that mirrors the simplicity and accessibility of social media apps. Look for tools that allow for announcements, surveys, and video conferencing, enabling you to maintain open lines of communication with employees, no matter where they are.

2. Make Your Communication Personal and Relatable

Ardern’s ability to balance empathy with clarity is a hallmark of her leadership style. Whether addressing the nation in casual attire from her home or speaking in a straightforward, approachable manner, she comes across as relatable and trustworthy. This personal touch has made her a figure that New Zealanders feel they can relate to and depend on during challenging times.

Similarly, business leaders need to connect with their teams on a personal level, especially during periods of uncertainty. Showing empathy and acknowledging the emotional challenges employees face can strengthen trust and morale. This could involve opening channels for employees to share their concerns or creating regular opportunities for honest, two-way communication. When employees feel heard and valued, their loyalty and productivity naturally improve.

3. Be Transparent and Honest in a Crisis

When Ardern introduced New Zealand’s strict lockdown measures, she made sure the public understood why such drastic steps were necessary. This transparency helped gain the public’s support and encouraged compliance with government directives. As a result, New Zealand successfully flattened the curve, enabling the country to ease restrictions sooner than expected.

In times of crisis, transparency from leadership is essential. When employees are kept in the dark, misinformation and anxiety tend to spread, making the situation worse. Clear, honest communication can help mitigate these fears. Providing regular updates on the company’s response to challenges, policy changes, and any other relevant information will help employees feel informed and more secure. Leaders should also create a central hub for all important information so that staff can easily access what they need to stay up-to-date.

By embracing these communication techniques, business leaders can foster trust, unity, and resilience within their teams, much like Jacinda Ardern has done with her country.

‍

Consult with our experts at Amity Solutions for additional information on EkoAI here