Leading a Team through Trauma
I saw a great post today - viruses are contagious but you know what so are smiles, positive energy, and hope. I know first hand how hard it is to put a smile on your face an act like it’s all going to be okay when you are not sure it is. Here are some ideas and tips to help you lead your team through the unpredictable.
Be patient. There will be alot of questions- answer what you can. Let them know you are still getting answers and will send updates.
Send a daily update. Even if you don’t have much to update the team on. You can let them know your availability if they have questions. I put some ideas for work in my daily update. Have you thought about reviewing your Q4 forecast? Review 4 contracts for upcoming clients and make notes, With so many working from home with COVID-19 it’s a great way to keep the lines of communication open.
Trust. I read today how trust during this time is key. Feeling untrusted or that your integrity is being questioned then it only adds to panic. Ask your team to check in with you daily even if just to say hello. Check on them personally and professionaly. Having that communication assist with building trust.
Make some phone calls. We live in a world of text and email and sometimes it’s just nice to hear someone’s voice and their tone. Call your team members for a check in. Pick a few a day to say hi too. Give them some one on one time verbally.
Use your resources!! I signed up for two webinars this week from different business coaches that are providing resources on leadership and client relationships during with COVID-19. I am looking forward to sharing some information from what I learn in my daily updates.
Have some fun! Virtually coffee chat with your team members. End of the day virtual happy hour with your team. Send something fun or funny in your daily updates.
GRACE. Give yourself grace during this time. There is not a perfect way to lead or handle the unknown. If you need a moment, then take it. Let yourself have feelings and allow yourself that moment to close your office door or sit quietly in your home work space. Have grace for your team. They are scared and concerned and sometimes that can come across emotionally.