This is part of a special report on life after coronavirus. Find more stories on what economic recovery looks like, how the fashion sector could emerge even stronger and tips for managing the remote workplace here. 

There’s nothing like a crisis to really test the true strength of a great leader. Here’s great inspiration from some of the best in the game:

Tony Nash, CEO Booktopia

“If you think about war movies we’ve watched over the years, it’s those lieutenants or privates who stand up and just take action that are successful, versus those who are sitting around, pondering what they should or shouldn’t do. It’s something for us all to learn.” 

Pippa Hallas, CEO, Ella Baché

“Use this time to get creative and get innovative. Of course, you have to take care of the fundamentals of the business and make sure everything is protected, but this is an enormous change that’s forcing business to adapt and innovate. You absolutely have to get on that rocketship.” 

Richard Facioni, executive director, Alceon Group

“Many of us, particularly in fashion

and discretionary retail, are being forced to pause our businesses and down tools for a while. Use this period as an opportunity to do the things we often don’t get enough time for: the housekeeping and strategic work. Where do our businesses need to be positioned when we come out the other side?”

Julie Mathers, founder, Flora & Fauna

“Your team will be looking to you for direction and guidance so you have to be present and communicate clearly. It is the single most important thing you need to be doing in a crisis. If you change your mind on something, because [business is] forever evolving, that’s fine, but be clear on why.”

Kelly Baker-Jamieson, founder, Edible Blooms

“I think that COVID-19 has brought the team closer together and provided additional focus on our purpose and what’s important. We all feel as a team that positivity and connections are at the heart of what we do. If anything, it’s making us stronger and fight harder for one another.”

This story is from the May 2020 issue of Inside Retail magazine. Subscribe here.