Tumult, the unexpected, and change are the new “business as usual.” In turn, denial, anger, sadness and fear are the quiet yet powerful human responses to this upheaval in many organizations. Unfortunately these strong feelings radiate among your people at the very time you need them to do their best and most creative work. It’s important to take notice—to widen your perspective beyond your P&L and address this challenging undercurrent. Don’t hesitate to ask your people about their feelings, and listen with empathy. Take it in, do your best to help them accept conditions as they are, and you will create the flexibility necessary to thrive in uncertain times.
Self-coaching Questions
- In what ways have recent business conditions affected me and my people emotionally?
- What questions can I ask them to understand this more fully?
- How can I play a major role in helping my people accept and embrace conditions as they are?
Executive Coach and President
Leadership Unleashed
Note: Over 100 of these tips appear in my
new book: Beyond Effective: Practices in Self-aware Leadership. Click
on the image of the book at the top of this blog for more information.
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