The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020–21 reshaped the world in many ways. In fact, it will not be surprising if the world, for many years to come, refers to the time period before the pandemic as BC (“Before COVID19”). COVID19 challenged leaders like never before. This tumultuous and challenging time was a perfect test of leadership, and those who steered their teams and companies through this storm successfully have earned a virtual crisis-leadership badge.

As a leader, one must hope for the best possible environment yet be prepared for the worst possible one. COVID19 could possibly be a once-in-a-lifetime event, but then again, one has to stop making predictions after seeing this unprecedented situation impact not one country but the entire globe.

There are some success stories about leaders whose companies emerged from the pandemic stronger than before, but there are ample examples of failed leadership. I believe the world was unprepared for a challenge of this magnitude, which led to the loss of many lives and severe economic impact. Witnessing this leadership bankruptcy was an unpleasant surprise.