Remind your team of your department ’ s values and mission : Every department should have a clearly defined mission and values that provide absolute clarity on why each officer comes to work every day . Our mission is our “ why ” as described by author Simon Sinek , and our values are the guardrails we work within when on the job . In Alpharetta , it is all about the quality of life of our citizens ( mission ) and valuing excellence with integrity , selfless service and always exhibiting a courageous spirit ( values ). It is especially important during difficult times to ensure officers are reminded of the importance of striving after the mission and living out the associated values while on the job . It is so easy for us to lose sight of what is important and get distracted and disgruntled when the level of stress is higher than normal . Leaders must be intentional in keeping officers mission minded and emphasize the values that are hopefully providing a foundation for a healthy culture .
There are numerous books written on effective communication techniques in leadership . For the purpose of this article , the bottom line is leaders have to be more intentional than normal when it comes to communicating in a crisis . Staff need to hear from their leadership consistently and effectively . There is a lot for officers to be concerned about but feeling valued and effectively led should not be a part of those concerns .
Agency leaders must be intentional in creating face time with their teams . The importance of face to face interaction ( practicing social distancing of course !) will always provide the greatest bang for the buck communication-wise . Written communication through emails and thank you notes can also provide some CRO opportunities to each team member feel valued . This can also be used to remind them of the importance of the agency ’ s mission and values . Agency heads should always ensure we recognize those employees who exemplify the organization ’ s mission and values , especially during a crisis . By the way , one the best ways to promote the department ’ s mission and values is by making sure department leaders emulate them .
Being the chief CRO is important in the day to day operations of the job . However , it is never more important than when leading teams through a crisis . As with
every other aspect of leadership , its starts with being intentional . One of the blessings that can come from difficult times is seizing an opportunity to hammer home with officers what is truly important in the organization . . . . its officers and why they do what they do .
Chief Robison has been Director of the Alpharetta Department of Public Safety for 3 years and has 19 years of service . He holds a Doctorate of Public Administration from Valdosta State University , Masters of Public Administration from Columbus State University , Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Georgia State University . He is also a graduate for the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command .
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