How communicators can promote stability amid volatility

In recent years, the world has seen a series of profound political changes, turmoil and jarring events.

From Brexit to Trump to North Korea and the ongoing chaos in the Middle East, there has been no shortage of anxiety-inducing upheaval. Here in Brazil, the former president, Dilma Rousseff, was impeached, and the country saw an unprecedented decline in trust in the government. The U.S., meanwhile, has “suffered the largest-ever-recorded drop in trust” in several once-revered institutions.

Unfortunately, the effects of political instability are not limited to economic or diplomatic concerns. All this uncertainty affects business organizations—especially in terms of communications.

Here’s how communicators can promote an atmosphere of confidence, stability and trust in a volatile world:

External uncertainty increases the need for internal stability, certainty and purpose. Now more than ever, leaders must project clarity and certainty to employees. The best way to do this is to present a substantive, inspiring, consistent purpose.