Leading a business is never easy, particular with all the economic uncertainty surrounding us. Ever-evolving obstacles like inflation, labor shortages and supply disruptions can be difficult to anticipate, especially while traversing daily business operations. Though it is critical, to keep a careful watch on environmental factors with the potential to influence business operations, it’s just as important to maintain a cool-headed approach. Keeping calm will allow for clearer thinking to not only to navigate crisis but will set the example your team needs to see to continue to move forward with daily operations, energized, motivated and even inspired.
When a leader lets on that their caught up in chaos, it can have a trickle-down effect and disrupt their team's workflow. Teams reflect the pace set by their leader and when that leader is spinning out of control, they often follow suit and can become just as stressed and likely to burn out. This can create a toxic work environment where quality of work declines, putting client relationships and talent retention at risk.
How to maintain focus amid upsets:
One of the most effective ways for leaders to navigate unexpected challenges with greater ease is to plan ahead. Leaders should consider the following when trying to stay calm during the storm:
• Stay present in the moment: Focus on what you can control. In times of stress, teams rely on leadership to set the course and provide guidance. Practice active listening with team members to understand where their greatest concerns lie and help direct their focus to the most pressing priorities. As stress levels fluctuate, look to organizational values and mission as a guiding force for you and your team. It’s also important to take the time to celebrate every win, no matter how minor, to keep team morale up and maintain a sense of progress.
• Trust your team: A team that relies on constant micromanaging is not one built for sustainable success. Leaders need to identify the fine line between over and under communication. Avoid any potential mishaps from the get-go by communicating clearly with teams about expectations. Create a plan with specifics on timelines, task assignments and client expectations. Delegation is also key to preventing burnout for leaders and their team. Leaders should hold regular check-ins with staff to go over assigned priorities and identify where they need to pivot or channel more resources.
• Prioritize well-being: By maintaining a healthy work/life, business leaders can bring the best version of themselves to the office and give a boost to, rather than drag down, team morale. This is when establishing boundaries becomes paramount. Business leaders should define work hours, what communication methods they prefer and create opportunities to discuss shifting priorities when workloads reach capacity. Personal interests are also an important way to take a break and recharge. Make time for hobbies outside of work to allow for more creative thinking unrestricted by the boundaries of business.
It can be easy to lead when everything is going your way, but the real test comes once the pressures grow. Through both the good and bad, business leaders set the tone and pace for their teams and if they want to ensure continued growth, they need to remain steadfast during turbulent times. Keep your head on straight and chart your course while you can, or risk having your team and your business fall off course in the chaos. Clear expectations, consistent communication and a commitment to a healthy work/life balance can set up leaders and their teams for continued success.