Larry D. Lauer

The Dynamics of Credibility… essential in a crisis.

1. A record of telling the truth.
2. A background of consistent moral character.
3. A record of explaining exactly what happened when there is troubling news.
4. A record of admitting errors, and a willingness to apologize.
5. Respect for worthy adversaries.

Effective Leadership Communication… essential at all times.

1. Always tell the truth.
2. Apologize after making a mistake, or neglecting to act sooner.
3. Include and acknowledge top experts when planning, and incorporate their recommendations.
4. In a crisis, unify the public by delivering truthful status reports, asking for whatever sacrifice is necessary, and promising that with their help the future will be better than ever.
5. Collaborate with a highly professional communication staff and/or group, and with their help use mainstream and social media platforms each day to keep the public fully informed.

Leaders with a history of autocratic behaviors and questionable moral character will not have the credibility necessary to unite people. Rather, their need to attack those with different opinions will inevitably lead to greater divisions and dangerous conflicts.