Leadership During Uncertain Times

COVID-19 and now the fall out of it, including now being in a recession has certainly made the environment uncertain. Uncertain times for individuals and businesses. During these times people turn to their leaders for guidance and reassurance more than ever before, so it’s important for leaders to stand up and lead, model the way forward.

Yes, leadership qualities as normal are important but more is required during uncertain times. It’s about being real, open and empathic. It’s important to commence communications early, remain open, acknowledge the uncertainty and provide employees with information, more frequent and continual information. Whilst leaders are trying to make sense of the environment and plan for the future, so are individuals. Employees want to know what it means for them and the organisation they work in. It’s important for leaders to acknowledge the challenges the business is facing and just as important is communicating the strengths and opportunities the organisation has to get through these times and move forward. This communication needs to be authentic to ensure it creates trust with employees – trust me they’ll know if you’re not! It is said that those working for high trust companies report much higher levels of energy, productivity, engagement, satisfaction and less stress, sick days and burnout than low-trust companies. Whilst these things are always needed, during uncertain times you certainly need them.

Employees need to feel a personal presence and connection. Leaders too are individual’s and effected so it’s ok to acknowledge that they too are in uncertain times as an individual and show they are in touch with employees and fellow human beings – after all stress is a normal response to uncertainty. Show employees empathy for people at all levels and the importance of everyone to work together to get through this. Take time to ask how they are and show an interest in their well-being and help if they are struggling. Ask them, RUOK? Keep an eye on them and be mindful of Domestic & Family Violence at home. It’s about being visible, being present in conversations and give them time.

During uncertain times, employees need guidance. Focus on business-critical things that everyone can align and contribute too, inspire a shared vision and get employees to see exciting possibilities for the organisation to get through these uncertain times. Allow them to be part of the solution and contribute to the short-term goals and innovation for longer-term goals by focusing on what can be controlled. Don’t let uncertainty be a reason for not getting things done.

If leaders can communicate, be authentic, be visible, provide guidance and connect, employees will be more engaged, motivated and have a high level of wellbeing. Employees will have confidence in their ability to work through the challenge’s uncertainty brings.

However, its also important for leaders to look after themselves and show resilience, to be better able to support and lead the team.

At HR Business Direction we can assist in Leadership Development and mentoring. Contact us here.

Leisa Messer BBus(HRM); GradDipIR; CAHRI; IRSQ
Managing Director | HR Strategist
leisa.messer@hrbd.com.au
07 3890 2066
www.hrbd.com.au