The recent COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted countries all over the world, and continues to spread even more spankingly. In such dismal times, we have to be united as humans and fight against this invisible enemy, and this is why leaders all over the globe collaborate in order to alienate the tragic outcomes of this pandemic. Hence, after briefly analysing the current situation, we conclude by supporting the idea that it would be unwise of leaders to pose as proud.

People look to leaders for guidance on what to do, what to expect and how to act. During uncertain and fluid times, the need for strong, calm, trustworthy leadership is more important than ever. Thus, the leader's attitude during such difficult times is the key to contain the pandemic and also a great responsability which has to be fullfilled.

Considering the responsabilities of his role in times of crisis, a leader has to:

• Manage stress

People look to leaders to be calm and deliberate in their decisions and actions. Leaders who react to stressful events in highly emotional ways can add to people's stress and anxiety. Leaders can start by slowing down, taking stock of their stress and understanding what is causing an emotional reaction. Even when facing the demands of a high-profile crisis, leaders must take breaks to reset and refocus.

• Share information with empathy and optimism

In their communications, leaders should recognize the uncertainty and anxiety people are experiencing. Recognize that people who are anxious need their leaders to give them hope and a sense of control. A loss of control can contribute to a sense of helplessness. Leaders should make it clear that there is a path to a better future and let people know how they can contribute. Providing specific steps people can take will help them manage stress and worry and build hopefulness.

• Use credibility to build trust

Credibility is a combination of expertise and dependability. Leaders gain credibility when they demonstrate that they understand the risks and ramifications of a situation. At the same time, leaders should not expect that they know all the answers. Good leaders admit when they don't know the answer to a question and defer to other experts - such as scientists or policymakers.

• Be honest and transparent

To increase trust and connection, leaders should deliver disappointing news in a clear, straightforward way and avoid giving a false perception that everything is OK. Effective leaders don't hide bad news, which rarely stays hidden. Leaders who don't share all the facts quickly become less credible, and that type of leadership can lead to more panic and overreaction.

• Provide regular communications

Good leaders establish a communication routine that people can look to with reliability. When communication stops, people are prone to imagine the worst.

• Be a role model

When people aren't sure how they should behave, they look to leaders as role models. Leaders must behave consistently with what they are asking others to do. Leaders need to be the first to embrace new policies such as cutting back on travel and practicing social distancing. People will follow the example of leaders they respect.

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