The new reality during this global pandemic is that we need to adapt fast to put different strategies in place. These tips are for businesses, CEO’s and managers on how to effectively lead in these unprecedented times.
1) The new reality & trying to foresee what might come next
Very few people anticipated the sheer magnitude of this health crisis and the effect it would have on the economy. The few who felt that decisions needed to be made quickly implemented changes in an effort to lessen impacts did so by:
- Instituting remote working for any employee who could
- Engaging with clients to help them identify issues and then implementing a solution that would benefit everyone
- Planning for the worst while hoping for the best
- Establishing internal and external communication strategies.
Now is the time for leaders to step up with courage and actions by being supportive and providing help and guidance to their people.
2) Communication
We live in uncertain times and now communication and maintaining connections with employees and stakeholders is vital. Keep open the lines of communication and be honest by informing your employees of impacts to the business and the positive measures you are taking to minimise impacts. By being open and transparent you ensure trust and respect and help to prevent panic among all those you engage with. To maintain communication in your company :
- Send daily emails
- Create and send out a newsletter
- Set up group chats and video conference calls
- Ensure you communicate regularly with anyone who is facing a challenge and needs your support.
Maintaining communication with the wider community :
- Put information on your website
- Stay active on social media (especially on LinkedIn)
- Take the time to create new content
- Always respond to any contact.
Communication is the key to getting us through this difficult time so take the time and stay in touch.
3) Company culture
Everyone is affected in this crisis and now more than ever it is essential to look after the people and the culture that keeps them together. We need to work at keeping company culture strong so that it helps us maintain our core values and mission. This is what drives us and will help us succeed even in uncertain times. A strong positive culture creates a united front and helps us refocus our efforts. Maintaining it sustains our business and drives our employees to demonstrate our commitment to our clients and to the wider community.
Our company culture has never been so important.
4) Strategic support
Support is always important but never more so than now. CEO’s, Directors and Boards must stay in contact and provide the support to those who need to make tough decisions. Keep strategy discussion to the forefront of your conversations and make sure you can adapt and evolve to any changes you anticipate coming down the line.
Involving the right people with the right attitude in your business strategy will pay dividends.
5) Proactivity
We are all facing challenges in the short and medium term while still looking for emerging business opportunities. Being forward thinking and proactive will help stay ahead of the curve and will give your company a competitive advantage.
The key is getting the balance right between what we faced before and what we will face in the future.
Conclusion
These times are unprecedented, and leaders can now step up and demonstrate their true leadership qualities.
- Be open in all your communications
- Listen
- Provide the right level of support
- Make the right decisions quickly
- Anticipate what is coming next
- Discuss your strategy with others
- Ensure you are business ready to take on new opportunities and challenges.
For more information and guidelines on COVID-19 please visit the HSE website : https://www.hse.ie/.