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Taking a Leadership Initiative During a Crisis
The effects of Coronavirus have spread throughout the world. If you are a business owner, you have likely seen a shift in your workforce throughout these few months. Leaders during a time like this, have to take a different approach to motivate their teams. Not only have business owners had to restructure their business involving their employees and how they work, but they have also had to consider the ‘new normal’ that will be implemented. So what does it take to inspire and motivate employees among all the change and how can they avoid the potential management traps?
One way that leaders tend to fall short during a time of uncertainty is that they take a narrow view. When your vision becomes restricted to what is happening in the present, you tend to miss out on potential opportunities. As a leader, you must intentionally take a step back, identify different approaches to challenges, and understand potential opportunities that may arise.
Along with a narrow view, leaders can fall into an operational comfort zone. As actions and decisions need to be made, leaders will feel as though they are adding value– and they are. But they must be careful to not only operate in the present moment. You must consider what may happen in the coming weeks, months, even years to prepare your organization for the unexpected.
You should trust your employees to do their specific job, and ensure that they are well-equipped to make decisions for their departments. As a leader, you are their support system and guide, but they should be taking the decision-making responsibilities so you can focus on the future of your business.
With this in mind, you must release control of every process and procedure within your organization. When you constrain your employees to run everything by you, you are telling them you do not trust them, and it adds a layer of frustration to their day-to-day workload. When you give your employees the trust and accountability they need to succeed, they will likely go above and beyond to help the company.
Another trap some leaders may fall into is losing sight of the fact that your employees are human and are being affected by the crisis like you. While you may need to direct a lot of your focus to your business operations, remember that your employees need support during an uncertain time. Work to unite people with their goals, to work toward your company’s success. Be sure each person understands how their work will affect the company’s bottom line and that their contributions are important and recognized.
Throughout COVID-19, a lot of businesses have had to adjust their daily routines and activities to stay safe. With all the change, a leader must remain a strong point of support for employees.
One way to help your employees with this change is to create a schedule that gives your employees the opportunity to connect with leadership and other employees. This may be a daily meeting, or a team chat that keeps everyone connected. Check-ins give you the opportunity to gauge your workers’ well-being, as well as show your support for your team.
You can also be implementing new training initiatives. Employees who are able to enrich their knowledge and skills will be more engaged and excited to work. Situations like the one we have currently experienced, give people the ability to sit and give inward. This gives employees the opportunity to discover what is important to them personally and professionally. If you offer your employees further education opportunities you will give them a greater sense of purpose and inclusion in your organization.
Lastly, keep your company culture going— even if you aren’t in the office! Implement a weekly Zoom happy hour, yoga session, or meditation. Work to build your company community beyond the office space, so employees stay stress-free and productive.
By implementing some of these practices, and avoiding any potential leadership traps, you will be able to lead your company through one of the hardest times it will face. At Culture Works, we know how important company culture is especially during uncertain times. Contact us for your culture assessment today!
