The 4 Crisis Management Types
After the challenges of 2020, it’s easy to feel like we’re in constant crisis management mode. Some people are ready to move on, while others are still very concerned. Which one is right? It depends.
COVID-19 is a crisis similar (in theory) to other crises such as genetic defect in the herd or a devasting weather event. Since we all react to crisis differently; it helps to understand employees’ and family members’ perspectives. Take a look at my "The Four Crisis Reaction Types" assessment. Hopefully it helps you find common ground.
#1: Hide & Hunker
- Slash budgets, close doors, and avoid external decisions.
- Underlying Issue: Haven’t accepted changed yet and are stuck in fear.
This type is one of fear. This person is concerned about how the crisis will affect them personally. They don’t want to take risks and will be slow to move on. When businesses are run by this type, they are slow to adapt and could close down.
#2: Conformist
- Waiting for the "all clear" from an authority, such as the government.
- Underlying Issue: Stuck in pause, need rules to move on.
This type is identified by their strict adherence to authority and rules. They will go for-ward with new activities but not without risk mitigation plans. Conformists demand others believe in the same precautions they consider essential. In crisis, they are rule followers to the extreme.
#3: Fence Rider
- Bored and ready to move forward but need reassurance.
- Underlying Issue: Unable to take the lead; prefer that someone influential ‘go first’.
This type is eager for change but doesn't want to make the first move. They will seek out Conformists or Vanguards for leadership. Fence Riders see both sides of the issue, which is helpful to have around when tensions run hot. If your farm is run by a Fence Rider, someone else will need to propel them into action.
#4: Vanguard
- Anger then action; already innovating, ‘So, what? The world is different.’
- Underlying Issue: Impatient; ready to create and implement new-world solutions.
Vanguards throw out the rulebook and make their own rules that they believe are better suited to their lives and farms. Vanguards in crisis have already decided that the crisis has/is happening, and it's time to tackle it. Vanguards are often initially motivated by anger at the crisis and frustration with the disruption, but they’ll quickly pivot and decide what needs to be done to survive and thrive. A caution with Vanguards, much like with Conformists, is they are often impatient with the other reaction types. This can lead unpleasant conflict with people either not ready to move on or seemingly slowing them down with too many arbitrary rules.
Recognize Reaction Types
So, where do you and your family fit? People can move through any or all of the stages. You cannot change everyone’s reaction, but you can still work together effectively if you know how to understand each other.
Sarah Beth Aubrey’s mission is to enhance success and profitability in agriculture by building capacity in people. She provides executive coaching as well as peer group and board facilitation.
