We live in uncertain and insecure times. The global outbreak of COVID-19 has created significant challenges for leaders in industries across the world as organizations need to adapt and turn challenges into opportunities.
In the face of adversity, leaders may struggle to manage their teams effectively.
Before the COVID-19 outbreak, over half of all professionals around the world worked remotely for at least 2.5 days a week. This has since increased dramatically, with 88% of organizations now insisting their employees work from home and practice social distancing when working in the office.
Leaders must adapt to a more flexible workplace and create a culture of accountability so that their organization can successfully weather the COVID-19 storm. Some leaders, even before the crisis hit, struggled with accountability. Now they must find a way to step up when it matters most.
Facing a crisis and being forced to think and behave in an unfamiliar way, leaders need to take an emergency response plan and adapt it rapidly, and keeping in mind that the goal is to reduce loss and keep things operating as they normally would.
Here are a few tips for leaders to navigate these uncertain times
Be visible – Leaders should make themselves highly visible and available, communicate openly and honestly, and be clear what your organization is doing to weather the crisis.
Be an active listener – active listening leads to trust building and improves manager-employee relationships
Adapt to the situation – face challenges, and solve problems as they arise. Unknown situations require innovation. Innovation is often born of necessity.
Actively work towards a better future – leaders must provide support, positive energy, and a sense of hope for the future.
Take care of your employees’ physical and mental health – great leaders support people who keep their businesses afloat. This includes providing a focus on health and wellness.
It is essential for leaders to stay focused on the vision of the company and move forward on team and company values, help employees have a clear picture of their goals at work, and make them feel supported by their teams.
Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic is a challenge for any business. All industries have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. HR Strategies Consulting is here to help. That is why we put together a list of resources to assist you and your teams as they navigate these unpredictable times.
