Learning to Be a
Stronger Leader
Learning to navigate a business through both
times of growth and times of crisis are important
skills every leader should possess, whether
they are heading up a small startup, a For-
tune 500 company or a nonprofit organization.
The University of Charleston’s (UC) Doctor
of Executive Leadership (DEL) program is de-
signed for leaders seeking to maximize their
executive value for organizations, communi-
ties and institutions. This rigorous program
integrates theory with practice and develops
skills for senior-level executives working in a
wide variety of industries and sectors.
The purpose of the program is to train leaders
in the effective use of business principles
while providing skill development and un-
derstanding in a wide range of areas. DEL
students become experts in executive deci-
sion making, complexity, organizational and
personal ethics, business theory, leadership
development and organizational dynamics.
In addition to the doctoral program in exec-
utive leadership, UC offers leadership pro-
grams for students at all levels, including
undergraduate degrees in organizational
leadership, frontline leadership and crisis
and emergency leadership and a graduate
degree in strategic leadership. For more
information about UC’s leadership programs,
visit www.ucwv.edu.
what it stands for, what it does and
what its commitments and contribu-
tions to society are. Therefore, should
a crisis occur, audiences are familiar
with your organization. Ultimately, if
the public does not know your story,
all they can associate with your or-
ganization is the crisis. That puts you
at a significant disadvantage when
endeavoring to guide your organiza-
tion through that crisis successfully.
Step 5: Build your reputation.
Much like a bank account, individ-
uals and organizations can develop a
reputation savings account that can be
accessed when crises occur. Building
brand awareness, demonstrating com-
mitment to communities and educating
audiences about your organization, its
mission and its values help build that
cache so that when crises occur, it has
a strong reputation. Your organization
can then draw on the account to help
weather the crisis.
Step 6: Be alert and watchful
for challenges on the horizon.
Many crises can be avoided or mini-
mized if they are recognized early. That
is why it is important to be alert and
watchful for challenges that may be
on the horizon. This involves being
aware of what is being said about
your organization and industry and
responding promptly to rumors with
accurate information. By anticipat-
ing external threats and identifying
ethical weaknesses within your orga-
nization, you can address challenges
before they become significant crises.
Step 7: Take care of you.
When crises occur, leaders must be
at the top of their game to navigate
them successfully. That is why you
need to invest in yourself. Take steps
to make healthy lifestyle choices a
priority and get enough sleep. Identify
sanctuaries where you can reflect or
meditate, and surround yourself with
external advisors who can help you
maintain perspective when you are
embroiled in challenging situations.
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