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Tornado recovery has been the top story in our local news since late April when we experienced one of the deadliest storms in US history. In a matter of seconds, many people lost their homes and loved ones. The death toll is nearly 250 in the state of Alabama. The reality in business, and life, is that you’re often up against conditions and circumstances you can’t control. It’s not just the weather. At any time, one of your employees may experience some kind of personal crisis — death of a loved one, divorce, serious illness, financial loss, etc. Under “normal” conditions, leaders work hard to keep employees focused on what really matters in the business. In times of crisis, the question of “What really matters?” takes on different meaning. What’s a leader to do? While having some kind of action plan is important, creating an environment for recovery is just as critical. People need a safe place to process. Set specific expectations to help them and/or the organization move forward. It’s less about what you do, and more about how you’re being. A leader’s job is to help create the perspective needed to positively influence others — especially in times of crisis. When your team or one of your employees is faced with an exceptional challenge, soft skills matter more. Here are some ideas — including some “soft skill” reminders — to help you help them: · Listen. In times of crisis, leaders ask themselves, “What should I do?” They feel even more pressure to “tell people what to do.” Start by listening. Listen and listen some more. People want to be heard and understood. · Challenge the view. Ask, “How can we view the situation differently?” One business owner I know was extremely frustrated because he had not met revenue goals over the past few months. However, when he looked at all he HAD achieved under difficult circumstances, he found new energy to keep moving the business forward. · Balance strength and sensitivity. In crisis, leaders tend to reach for their superman (or superwoman) cape to display strength — to take charge. But quiet compassion and understanding go a long way. The most effective leaders demonstrate empathy. They reveal their human side. · Determine what’s next. You or your team may have a mountain to climb to recover from a big setback, but just help people take one step at a time. By helping them see what’s next, you’ll make steady strides toward your goal. They’ll see the process as manageable as opposed to overwhelming. People are fueled by hope. As you help others see a brighter future for themselves, they’ll contribute more to the business and live happier lives. When your team or business is teetering on the edge, forget the leadership models and 360 degree feedback. Don’t worry about getting all the words right. It’s time to just be you — to share the signs of hope they may be missing. Remind the person of your confidence in their own ability to persevere and succeed. They need to hear it. It is the simple acts that matter most. I continue to be inspired by survivors of the storms who focus on what they have versus what they’ve lost. They provide important lessons to leaders who are trying to grow their business or start over under extremely difficult circumstances.
Start by communicating from the heart. Save strategic planning for another day. Keep the faith. Grow based on what you have now. Forces of nature can’t compete with the force of human nature. Twisters, including the metaphorical ones in your life, work or business, can be destructive. But they can’t take away your unique talents, spirit and potential to make a positive difference. Adversity shapes who you are. It expands your capability to make a more significant impact. As a leader, help people get through the storm. Build resilience. Keep going! |
