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In times of uncertainty, how do you lead, asks Neil Waters, a consultant at Egon Zehnder International, Melbourne, in an article for CEO Forum Group? He advises top executives to start with four words: confidence, clarity, consistency and cheerfulness. Although hard to pin down, confidence is communicated by leaders in their actions, body language and commentary. Executives who project confidence can help to sustain productivity, writes Waters. He also highlights the importance of honesty in a crisis, as this enables employees to make intelligent decisions about their futures. Consistency means following the rules laid down for everybody, especially as far as cutbacks are concerned, says Waters. Lastly, he advises leaders to reduce tension in the workplace by putting current economic developments into a broader perspective.