Followers form a mental image of what their leader expects of them based on what they see, hear, or feel. For these reasons it is important to correct misinformation by putting your vision out there so that those who look to your for direction can ‘see’ what you mean and where you’re going. Whoever said, “A picture is worth a thousand words,” understood this process very well.

It is human nature to speculate about other people especially when times are chaotic. Everyone’s strengths, weaknesses, hot buttons, and personal problems quickly become the topic for gossip. The unofficial ‘grape vine’ usually carries harmless or amusing commentary. Unfortunately, some times fabricated tales or embellished stories can harm innocent people. When this happens, reputations are damaged, credibility is lost, and morale suffers. 

            Here are a few suggestions that will assist you in clarifying misinformation:

• Do not wait until you have all the details—just get the truth out there. Unless you are bound by some legal restriction, tell your followers everything you know about the matter.  If some of what you say turns out to be inaccurate, then retell it as soon as you are able. You may have to do this several times before the false information is replaced by the truth.
• Pick out those followers who are trustworthy and talk to them personally. Tell them you want to know the truth about what they are hearing. Ask them not to embellish upon what they tell you. Let them know that if you find out they have twisted the story even a little bit, you will not confide in them again.
• Keep your feelings to yourself. Avoid making judgments about what might be happening. Report only the facts you know first hand. Listen to individual opinions thoughtfully without comment. This may sound harsh, but people do not care what you think, nor do they want your opinion. They just want to know what you know.

Once you have gained their confidence it is time to provide a regular place and time for followers to get together to discuss their misgivings and examine their expectations in a supportive environment. Actions such of these will ensure that you are the most reliable source for information.