The workforce has been stressed and stretched with over two years of handling all that has come with the pandemic. Just as the light at the end of the tunnel seemed to faintly come into view, Ukraine was attacked by Russia two weeks ago, sending shock waves of panic and heartbreak across the globe. The impact of this war is far-reaching, affecting employees in various levels of severity. As a leader, it is hard to know the right words or actions to use. The key is understanding the impact on employee mental health and well-being, acknowledging the crisis, opening up the door for honest communication, and demonstrating support. This week, we explore the importance and ways to support your employees during times of global crisis.

How to Talk to Your Team About Distressing News Events

When a major news event captures collective global attention, employees look to leadership to step up and address it. While it may not seem like the kind of topic that is right for a meeting, many of your employees may be impacted whether it’s personally or whether it weighs heavily on their minds. But leaders are human and may find themselves at a loss for words or actions. In positions of authority, leaders’ words have special weight and can either foster anxiety or create a supportive culture. Here are three simple ways to open the conversation and better support your employees when distressing news events occur.

How to Support Teammates Living in Ukraine — Or Any War Zone

Digital teams have become commonplace, especially due to the last two years of the pandemic. If you work on a large enough team, you likely work with people overseas. Ukraine is the largest exporter of IT services, so businesses all over the world are witnessing their teammates under attack. You want to help, but you don’t want to increase the emotional burden on those who are fighting, bunkering, or fleeing for their lives. This article focuses on practical ways to help your colleagues in crisis and provides real examples of companies already stepping up for their Ukrainian teammates. And while it uses examples of the current conflict, these tips can be applied to future situations of unrest.

The Ukraine Crisis Has People Rattled. Here’s How to Talk About Fear at Work

When global tragedy occurs, anxiety and intense emotions are bound to trickle down. It’s ok and normal. The event may be especially triggering for employees, especially those with connections to the country or wider region. While leaders may not know the perfect thing to say, they should at least broadcast their support. Doing so fosters a psychologically safe work environment where individuals are positioned to succeed. By acknowledging what is happening and starting a conversation, it opens the door for employees to voice their concerns. Here are four ways to ensure employees feel supported in a tumultuous time, and one example of a company that put these steps in motion to support its team amidst the attacks in Ukraine.