FORTIFIED LEADERS = SUCCESS
Caretaker is an adjective that can describe a leader but is uncommonly used. However, organizational leaders are responsible for their workplaces and the wellbeing of their employees (during hours of operation of course). Under ordinary circumstances, this is a duty most leaders fulfill without batting an eye. However, the current state of affairs are anything but ordinary and leaders must be their own caretakers in order to effectively lead others. So, how do you manage yourself and your teams when the stakes are high?
Leading amid any crisis can be stressful, not to mention a global pandemic that has resulted in the closing of thousands of businesses, and the livelihood of employees literally resting in the hands of employers. Feelings of fear, anxiety, anger, and confusion often attributed to individual contributors are being experienced by leaders as well. It sounds daunting and some days (and nights) it is. This is precisely why leaders must be intentional about self-initiated care.
Fortify Yourself- It is imperative that leaders are mentally and physically sound, especially in turbulent times. Organizations expect their leaders to provide direction, quick decisions, stability, empathy, and execution, while making it look easy. However, leaders cannot be productive on a consistent basis if worn down. Guard your energy by taking time to exercise, eat balanced meals, drink lots of water and resting.
Take Care of Your Employees- and they will take care of you. Employees are loyal to employers who are transparent, authentic and who listen. Communicating care and concern for their professional and personal wellbeing can render a huge payoff. Your employees will remain engaged and dedicated to the work. This can aid with keeping businesses afloat and reducing turnover. When we emerge from this, employees should remember the response from their leaders in a positive manner.
Operational Excellence- While ensuring the safety of employees, organizations must be laser focused on profitable strategies and processes. This requires leaders to demonstrate ingenuity and the ability to seamlessly modify in an instant. The goal is for organizations to not only survive but emerge stronger than before. Good leadership is the foundation of success in this area.
Leading during a pandemic is not for the faint of heart. However, leaders who are realistic about the need for personal care can benefit from endurance, professional agility, and daily renewal of business clarity. Additionally, you are positively influencing others. Healthy leaders are smart leaders and a requirement for business sustainability.
Takiyah Cunningham, M.S. HRD
https://www.linkedin.com/in/takiyah-cunningham/
