To say the current state of affairs is trying would be an understatement. The global health crisis has many members of the workforce facing mental health challenges along with growing job insecurity and mounting financial concerns. This has amounted to a growing prevalence of depression and anxiety in the workplace as employees are struggling to grapple with the challenges of the day-to-day in the face of the pandemic. However, these negative impacts can be assuaged—at least in some parts—by effective management through compassion, empathy, and transparency. According to recent findings from an Ohio State University study on the impacts of the pandemic on mental health and engagement at work, “We found that servant leaders who keep their employees’ well-being as a top concern can help their anxious workers stay engaged at work and encourage them to contribute to the broader community.” A style of leadership that is ethical and trustworthy along with managers who express genuine interest in the well-being and development of their employees are the most effective at staying the course through this crisis.
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