Don't Do This in Your Leadership During COVID19
These times are a test of resilience. Adjusting to working remotely is challenging for leaders and teams. Adjusting to working on site during a pandemic is the same. It’s a lesson for all of us on how to adapt to and manage what is inevitable - change. Resistance comes when people are afraid. At its most severe it’s like trying to stand still in an earthquake. “Why is this happening to me?” People feel victimized and want to escape.
Leaders need to be sensitive to their own fears and those of their constituents. Everyone needs to accept that uncertainty is part of life. The sooner we accept that the more resilient we become.
As leaders we need to be change neutral - not change agents. Don't coddle, over-sympathize, or try to protect your team or you send the message that change is painful and unmanageable. Instead of asking, “How can I make this change easier for you?” as if you are personally choosing to push something down on them that you caused, you should first ask what they’re feeling and seek to understand. Then build them up. Remind them of ways they’ve adapted well in the past. Ask them, “How can I help to build your skills and draw on your strengths to help you be your best?”
Managing to personal preferences comfort levels stunts growth and shows favoritism. Don’t shade people from what reality requires. Help them hone their ability to be resilient - ready, willing and able.
* NOTE * Allow me to point out that if you are working at home, now is the perfect time to work with me on your leadership, executive presence and career goals. You'll have time and focus to do the work necessary to create whole life change. When you get back to your office you might not be as free to prioritize yourself. Make good use of this "meanwhile time." Set up a free consultation call with me so we can discuss if coaching is a good fit. I am happy to show you what you can expect and enjoy with this transformation. Request a free consultation call.
If you are struggling with uncertainty and feel exhausted and ineffective watch my FREE Training on Three Ways to Move to the Next Level In Your Career Right Now to 1) identify the right role for you, 2) position your transferable skills and 3) create a career portfolio that sells you before you even get an interview. If you don't know where you will be at the end of the year, you are already there.
Your coach,
Mary Lee
P.S. Feel free to forward this email to someone who could benefit from it. We are all walking down the same road in life looking for a hand to hold. Sometimes we must be the hand that reaches out. www.MaryLeeGannon.com
Mary Lee Gannon, ACC, CAE is an executive coach and 19-year corporate CEO who helps leaders have more effective careers, happier lives and better relationships. Request a free consultation call.
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