The more you communicate with employees, the less likely they will be impacted by misinformation, and the more likely they will feel secure and remain focused. The following are steps for supervisors and managers to follow when talking to employees.

• Talk to everybody at once
  Avoid misinformation by sending the message early on. While the most effective vehicle is personal contact, use every form of communication -- memos, emails, company-wide e-broadcast, etc.
• Don't delay
  Even if you don't have all the information, in a crisis situation the mere presence of a CEO, supervisor or manager is reassuring.
• Be calm
  Everyone is watching for any sign of fear or confusion, so communicate confidence.
• Avoid vagueness
  The more information people have, the more limited the opportunity for rumors. Be honest; admit what you don't know, and share the knowledge you can.
• Talk about protection
  Inform employees of actions being taken to ensure their safety; everyone will be better equipped emotionally to focus and return to work.
• Allow time for questions and suggestions
  There may be limited time to answer questions or take suggestions. Frequently people simply need to express themselves; if possible, give them the opportunity to do so.
• Offer assistance
  If psychological trauma has occurred, make counseling available to those who need it. If public transport has been disrupted, offer assistance. If your company has a fund or other monies available for crises, make it available as soon as possible for those who qualify.
• Be understanding
  It's difficult for people to return to peak productivity immediately after a crisis. Expecting them to do so will give rise to errors in judgment and accusations of insensitivity. Explain to employees that they are entitled to be shaken and nervous.
• Be aware of signs of emotional impact
  There are a number of emotional warning signs that your management and supervisors should be aware of. These include:
  • Lower productivity
  • Frequent absenteeism
  • Overworking
  • Forgetting requests and instruction
  • Emotional numbness
  • Anger

Co-workers displaying these signs should be approached privately and quietly asked if they're okay, and if not, whether they would like to receive professional help.