Listen to people — individually. Each has a unique reaction to this moment. Don’t assume you know how they feel until they choose to tell you. Support them.
Determine what each person needs. Some have been on the story for a long time and simply need rest. Some want to dive into post-election reporting because it invigorates them. Some may wonder if their ethics-based journalism matters anymore.
Whether they are tired or inspired, give them what they need. And if they’re discouraged, help them get back in touch with what drew them to this vocation in the first place. Discuss how that intrinsic motivation could serve them, journalism, and society today.
Remember that your team looks to you for cues, and the leader’s emotions are contagious. You may be genuinely concerned about threats to your journalism, but if you appear defeated or overwhelmed, they will feel it, too. If you convey realism and optimism about the need for robust journalism going forward, you can lift them up.
Tags: Career, Leadership