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How Strong Leaders Forge A Path Forward In Uncertain Times

How can you lead well through ambiguity? Although you may be unsure of so much right now, three decisions will keep your ship afloat.


In uncertain times, the pressures of growth and transformation are intensified. You’ll also be forgiven for the worry that accompanies sustaining your core values as you try and adapt to a rapidly changing world.

Rachel Treece, CEO The Henka Institute | Source: Courtesy Photo
Rachel Treece, CEO of The Henka Institute | Source: Courtesy Photo

As the leader of your organization, navigating such instability is an essential charge. You will need to keep your company’s collective anxiety checked as you reassess risk, even when there is a severe lack of clarity.

So how can you lead well through ambiguity? Although you may be unsure of so much right now, three decisions will undoubtedly keep your ship afloat.

 

1. Embrace change

Although it’s quite trying, it is critical to embrace change; not only in connection with the current public health circumstances we find ourselves in (i.e., the global pandemic) but how these unprecedented times have impacted the world across the spectrum from challenges to advancements.

There will be positive times ahead. As bizarre as it sounds, one thing that can already be attributed to COVID-19 is that we have been compelled to work from home and adopt a remote work business model resulting in significant savings for companies worldwide.

Finding your way through ambiguity starts with acceptance, which helps you and your team prepare for the future more efficiently.

 

2. Do not assume anything

In times of uncertainty, it’s easy to assume the worst. As a leader, you’re expected to offer solutions, never hesitate, and prepare your team to weather the storm. However, by taking time to think and consult others, you will be better equipped to make deliberate decisions and remain calm amid adversity.

Being a leader doesn’t necessarily mean you have solutions to everything. As companies opt to outsource various business operations, it makes sense to collaborate with experienced individuals and teams when a transformation is imperative.

Enhanced clarity around the purpose and strategic direction of your organization will help you and your team cope better with the difficulties of ambiguity.

 

3. Deliver on best possible outcomes

Delivery is part of your purpose. Focusing on outcomes will help to drive your organization’s growth, sustainable impact, and profitability.

As it stands, you may be uncertain of what tomorrow will bring. However, an effective way to unite your people is to remind them that a collective focus on the task at hand and delivering (i.e., achieving) the best possible outcome is essential.

We have all been disrupted by COVID-19. However, by letting your team know you’re all going through trying times and that you’re in it together, you will, in turn, build confidence, reinforce relationships and remain productive.

Rather than panicking when new and disruptive changes arise, help your team understand that worrying about what they can’t control is damaging. As a leader, you can add tremendous value to your organization by letting your team know that a steady focus on what they can control will result in more engagement and meaningful contribution.

Ultimately, to achieve powerful transformation, directly embedding in-house coaching training gives leaders the ability to inspire effective and balanced change. Change that occurs when drawing out the very best from your employees.

 

Rachel Treece is the CEO of fts global, WELLBUSINESS™, and recently founded The Henka Institute, a passion project designed to embed coaching culture into organizations. Rachel previously worked as an executive within the global financial services sector and has vast experience in managing multi-cultural teams for FTSE and Fortune 100 companies. Rachel was awarded Most Inspiring Women in Entrepreneurship in 2012 and is a founding member of the Charity Dress for Success (Luxembourg). She lectures regularly at the University of London and University of Newcastle (London) on their MBA and entrepreneurship programmes as well as mentoring young women on various international programmes.

 

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