Professor of Social Work and Social Research James (Jim) Martin has written a piece for detailing some of the leadership principles and practices necessary during times of profound challenge, such as the coronavirus epidemic.
From the piece:
"In the midst of loss and grief, an effective leader continues to move forward, recognizing when to offer encouragement and direction, and when to just be present in the moment, present with those who are struggling."
"In those moments an effective leader understands that while those they serve may be distraught, they are not helpless. Leaders see, acknowledge, and encourage confidence and hope in those they lead, always fostering their inherent capacity to succeed."
Martin's essay originated from his participation in the below webinar panel on grief leadership sponsored by The Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC), a multidisciplinary professional membership organization committed to excellence in death education and supportive counseling in areas related to death, dying processes, loss, and grief.
A retired Army Colonel, Martin's distinguished military career included a wide array of clinical, research, as well as senior program management (command) and policy assignments. Martin served as the senior social work officer in the combat theater during the first Gulf War. He has served as a subject matter expert for numerous Department of Defense and other related federal, as well as state-level policy, program development, and research initiatives. His scholarship, teaching, and public service focus on the well being of individuals, families and communities, and his research and civic engagement address military and veteran populations.