Principles for Leading in the Coronavirus Era
True leaders emerged during times of crisis whether they have already existed or stepping up. If you are leading a group, you must employ these 5 key principles.
Remain levelheaded and calm. In the midst of calamity, or in this case, the unknown ever-changing era of COVID-19, you will be hit with information that is constantly changing. You must be steady and consistent in your approach. It’s okay to change course if you need as information changes.
Be decisive in what you do and what you speak. It is easy to go with the flow but you risk dysfunction and can compromise safety if you do not have a plan. A decisive leader has courage and is confident about his or her plans in order to size up next steps and communicate clearly.
Extend your ability to listen intently. Listen to your teams, your constituents, your community and the experts. Listen to understand what they are feeling and experiencing so that you can return compassion as you unfold your plan. Remember that anyone can speak but few have the skill to listen which is more difficult but imperative if leading during this emotional and turbulent environment.
Practice sensitivity when speaking about the pandemic. Know who is on our team and any issues that may be affecting them so that you can take this into consideration when making decisions that will have a direct impact on your team. Given the heightened awareness over racial injustice, ensure that you are addressing any systemic inequities that may have already been in play.
Be flexible during difficult times. Revisit daily habits for you individually and your teams to better fit this new environment. In other words, take care of yourself. Change your pace, find different ways of doing the ordinary. Everyday pressures will continue to increase as things worsen; however, if you can anticipate change, you can prepare to have solutions ready. Whether it is changing hours, extending a dual work model, or sharing ways to fill your mental bucket, remember that you are important to those that you are leading and they are equally as important to you as a leader in order to move through this time. Do not take this lightly.
As an educator and leader, I would suggest that those leading in the Coronavirus era must learn to balance their current leadership style with flexibility and empathy. Navigate handling yourself in situations where you may not be as comfortable. Use facts over your personal opinions and explain the reasons behind your decisions. If you want others to follow, they must be confident in the person leading them. We are a resilient people and together, we will grow through this trying time.
Need more? The Karla Rhay Group is here to help.