The results are in… Business Insider has just released its list of the Worst CEOs Ever. A few individuals – such as Bernie Ebbers and Ken Lay — made the list for committing crimes; others for executing poor business strategy. And although we can’t be certain if it was true in every case, it’s likely that a few of these gentlemen were not well versed in crisis leadership techniques or transition management, either.

As a leader, your success will be measured in large part by your ability to deal effectively with challenges. How do you respond in the midst of drastic change or chaos? How do you dispel rumors, calm fears and keep the company’s wheels turning when the inevitable crisis occurs?

In short, how do you keep your name off the aforementioned list?

Whether the stormy seas are caused by pending job cuts, restructuring or abrupt changes in business goals or leadership, here are a few tips for steering your organizational ship safely through troubled waters:

· Take immediate action. Do not delay. Remember the Exxon Valdes oil spill off the Alaskan coast in 1989? Exxon’s CEO failed to respond quickly and publicly, which gave the impression that he was indifferent to the damage his company had caused. Show all stakeholders that you are “on the case” and that you are actively crafting a solution.

· Communicate… even if you don’t yet have all the answers. It’s OK to admit that you’re concerned, and it’s OK to admit that you don’t know what the future holds. Above all, tell the truth. Just be upfront and say what you do know, sans spin. Remind your team that, since you are choosing to open the lines of communication from the start rather than waiting days or weeks for all the information to come in, details are subject to change. And remember to listen. Give everyone the opportunity to voice their concerns, ask questions and make suggestions. Listen for as long as it takes, and let your people decide when the Q & A session is over. The credibility you earn by being forthright will inspire your team to forsake the rumor mill and come to you for answers.

· See and be seen. Resist the urge to hunker down. Get out from behind your desk and go to where they make the sausage. Even if you’ve got nothing new to report, physically be there for your people. Your presence will have a calming effect, and who knows? You may find the answer to one of your most challenging issues – or at least some much-needed inspiration – on one of these jaunts outside the C-suite.

· Be proactive and ask for help. Prepare in advance to meet your next leadership crisis, because you can rest assured that it will come! Seek guidance from a trusted advisor or strategic consultant who has helped other C-level executives perfect their crisis leadership and transition management skills. By being proactive and developing a crisis plan, you may just save your career and your organization – not to mention keeping your name off those pesky lists!

What was your greatest leadership challenge, and how did you resolve it? Share your experience in the comment form below!