Leading through Chaos

I think we can all agree that our teams are experiencing some level of disruption in their lives at this current point in time. Markets falling, prices increasing, rising unemployment, looming rumors of layoffs, and overall uncertainty that we have not experienced for some time.

Although this might be a difficult time to show up as our best selves and stellar leader, these are the moments that make a lasting impression on those individuals that we interact with. It is the moments that our teams experience during these times that imbed their beliefs in what is true about us, our organizations and foster the stories that permeate our virtual chats, hallways, meeting rooms and dinner tables.

Every closed door, blocked calendar, unexpected absence, flippant comment and emotional reaction can have a detrimental impact on the trust we have been consciously building with our teams. Once trust is lost, it is very difficult to get back. Scientists have stated it takes over three positive experiences to counter the impact of one negative one.

What is important to remember as a leader in this current state of affairs? A few simple concepts to keep top of mind each day, each moment. Put them on a Post-it on your screen, type them on your morning alarm, write them in your journal or simply take a minute each morning to repeat them out loud. Make them part of your every day and just who you want to show up as a leader.

• Stay present - Be physically present with our teams by making yourself available, leaving space for both planned an impromptu discussion. Stay in the present moment yourself and not churn on "what is potentially coming" in the future. Get grounded and stay there throughout your day. Our teams will mirror our thoughts and actions.

• Focus on what you can control - we can spend much wasted energy dwelling on things that are outside of our purview. Pick the top 2-3 items to tackle throughout the day that you can control move them to in progress or complete status. Ensure that 1 of those items is actively advocating for your team.

• Be intentional - set your intention of how you want to show up as a leader each and every day. Understand that the experiences you create, either consciously or unconsciously, by what you do or you don't do, what you say and how you say it, will shape the beliefs that your team and those around you have. Strive for those experiences to be positive, and the results will be energizing.

• Be transparent - share what you can about the current situation within your organization. Be truthful in what you can share vs what is not yet available information vs what is unknown at this point in time. In the absence of information, stories will flourish and we all know the tendency for the negative in the rumor mill.

• Be kind - understand that you are one part of an individuals' day, and you have the ability to influence the outcome. Stay positive and show compassion to what may be impacting them both inside and outside of the workplace. But also share feedback that will help each team member grow and flourish, even if that feedback is counter to staying in the team if an individual's strengths and passions do not align with the team or organization. Use your networks to help them find that perfect fit and foster their growth.

It is much easier to lead in the good times, when budgets are plentiful, jobs are numerous, companies are growing, and the market is booming. It is in these times of disruption and volatility where our teams need our steady and consistent leadership the most. These times tell the story of the leaders we are. Let's be conscious in our choice. If you want to dive deeper on how you want to show up as a leader, we would love to chat with you. You can reach us at shannon@debackerassociates.com