Especially in the context of an abrupt shift to telework, it is important for managers to recognise the stress, listen to employees’ concerns and worries, and empathise with their struggles. It is important for the manager to put aside his or her own stress or concerns (intrapersonal area) and focus for a moment on those of the employee (interpersonal area). Research on emotional intelligence and emotional contagion tells us that employees look to their managers for clues on how to react to sudden changes or crisis situations. Effective leaders take a two-pronged approach, acknowledging the stress and anxiety employees may feel in difficult circumstances, but also affirming their confidence in their teams. With this support, employees are more likely to take on the challenge with a sense of purpose and focus.