Business leaders, the time to lead is now
It’s been only three and a half years since Hurricane Harvey, a Category 4 hurricane, ravaged our beloved city of Houston. Harvey impacted so many people, including me and my family; we had to evacuate in the middle of the night as water surged over the control channel near our street. But through it all, our community came together — supporting one another emotionally and physically. Since then, my mantra has been: “If we can survive Harvey, we can survive anything!”
Now, that optimism is being put to the test. The COVID-19 pandemic is applying stresses and strains that we have never experienced before, and this time it involves our entire state as well as our nation. In the face of this challenge, more than ever we as leaders within the business community need to be strong for our employees.
With so much uncertainty, we’ve got to reinforce and model the importance of honesty, transparency and genuine concern for those we’re responsible for. We owe them that.
Let’s face it, nothing could have prepared us for the “stay at home” mandate that all businesses are going through. We have asked the world to literally stop its normal rhythms and movements, and the consequences have been dramatic. Fear, frustration, sadness and even anger threaten to take over — unless we consciously vow to do something about it. If this is the hand we’ve been dealt for the time being, then now is the time for leaders to lead and support our employees by being there for them with open ears, hearts and minds.
Communicate often
In such a crisis this, there’s no such thing as overcommunicating with employees. Neglecting to regularly stay in touch can be debilitating to the morale, spirit and culture of any organization. Reach out with recurring updates. Let them know where things stand, be transparent and let them know you’re all in it together.
Share positive news, regardless of how small it is; even the smallest triumphs can begin to set the tone that things will turn around. Even bad news will be appreciated if you’re up front about it. Your credibility as a leader is on the line; don’t disappoint your employees — lead from up front, not from the back.
Embrace technology
This can be a great time to build a connection for those who are new to working from home. There are countless video meeting platforms that you can choose to create a connection. Consider a virtual coffee chat or happy hour to get your organization or teams together for a check-in.
Remember the human element: Ask your people to share how they’re doing personally, rather than focusing exclusively on work.
Culture
In a crisis where everyone is impacted, the culture of your organization will be tested. But it also has the opportunity to reveal itself and shine as a beacon of hope for every employee. As a leader, model the values your organization stands for. Consider how history will record the ways in which you and your organization handled this unprecedented moment in time.
Although these are trying times for all of us in Houston and beyond, I remain optimistic that our business community will continue to come together to make us stronger and better than ever before.