As business leaders in times of crisis, we tend to focus on the practical. What do we need to do to keep the business running at this time? This is leading with our heads.
Unfortunately, that often leaves out the human aspect, the physical, mental and emotional toll that a crisis can have on employees. The part that requires leading with our hearts.
So how do you do both? Here are some tips.
Let’s start with the heart part.
Maintain community. To me the term “social distancing” only makes this wild ride worse. Yes, we need to distance from one another, but let’s call it what it is – physical distancing – and recognize that we still need to be “social.” If ever there was a time when people need to connect it is now. Find ways to help your people connect remotely beyond your team meetings and work updates. Call your direct reports just to ask how they’re doing. Have them call their direct reports to check in. Set up a phone tree where team members call each other. Ask questions like, “What are you doing to take care of yourself?” “How is your family doing?” “Is there anything you need?” Listen. Show compassion. Make it about them personally and not just work.
Keep it real. Show your vulnerability. Empathize. Be understanding if they are a bit overwhelmed at the moment. They may be struggling to keep up with work while homeschooling their kids, or worrying about their aging parents, or stressing about when this is all going to end. Connect with them as a human being, not just their leader.
Respect the line between work and home. Encourage team members to establish set times when their workday begins and ends and then respect those parameters. Trust that they will get their work done when they get it done. They don’t need to be on call 24/7.
Trust your people. Trust and integrity are core to leadership. Always. Show your team that they can trust you to do all you can to help them be successful in this crazy world. Demonstrate that you trust them to do their work and support the success of the team. Don’t micromanage.
As for the head part…
-Be sure everyone on your team is set up to work at home, as applicable.
-Set clear and reasonable expectations
-Communicate, communicate, communicate (and remember that communication includes listening!)
-Have regular team meetings
-Share your plan for when this wild ride is done
-Remember to say “thank you”
Research shows that productivity during this time has skyrocketed. Some of it has to do with our work-oriented culture, some of it has to do with people being worried about keeping their jobs. The problem is – people may burn out. Don’t let that happen to your team. Lead with your heart and your head.
If you take care of your people, your people will take care of the business.
Till next time. Keep it real.
Karen
