From paradox to resilience in crisis: A model for successful crisis management

Abstract

In this conceptual contribution, successful crisis management is described as the journey from paradoxical tensions in the crisis to resilience in the organization. Contradictory, yet interrelated interests, needs and demands in the current COVID-19 pandemic are used for illustration. The developed model emphasizes the importance of a paradox mindset for leaders, decision makers and people concerned to recognize and accept paradoxical tensions in the crisis and to realize chances in a “both-and” approach (as opposed to “either-or”). The paradox mindset facilitates the reoccurring process of sensemaking and sensegiving about these tensions. This process enables the development of collective “both-and” mindsets, creative approaches, and iterative learning in the crisis. Thus, the paradox perspective enables organizations to deal constructively with tensions and to transform them into chances—it fosters the organizations’ resilience. At the end, the model is summarized in three recommendations for successful crisis management.