Almost overnight your world was turned upside down. Rather, the whole world was turned upside down. COVID-19 blew through, shattering schedules, disrupting relationships, and overturning job security. Now, we wait to see how the dust settles. We wonder what life will look like in the coming months. Will we head back to the office? Will our kids return to school? Will we enjoy a football season? Will we get to attend a wedding this summer or at least feel comfortable enough to have friends over for dinner? It’s as if the storm clouds of coronavirus are still lingering. Whatever tomorrow brings is unclear. And while we wait with anticipation for the clouds to part and the shining sun of “normalcy” to break through, we still have a job to do. We still have a company to run, a team to manage. So, rather than sitting idly, take these four action steps and successfully navigate your way through this uncertain time.
1. Consider Others
During a time of crisis and especially during this pandemic, we must consider other people. We need to be mindful of those who have loved ones who are immune-compromised and do our part to help protect them. This may include showing extreme amounts of restraint or it may mean going out of our way to deliver groceries or send a meal. While you’re anxious to “get back to normal,” respect your company’s guidelines for re-opening. Find ways for your company to generously support your employees, suppliers, or nonprofit organizations working overtime. This is not the time to be stingy with your resources. You will promote brand loyalty and strengthen employee relationships when your top priority is offering support to those who need it.
2. Keep Your Promises
While it may be tempting to turn on Netflix, scroll through your social media accounts, or take an extra-long lunch break, you made a promise to work hard for your employer and they made a promise to pay you. Both parties need to keep their promises despite extenuating circumstances. You also need to keep your promises to clients, customers, and suppliers. A huge part of keeping your promise includes honesty. Be upfront about where you stand as a company, keep people in the loop. Maintaining trust during a crisis is the only way to ensure you’ll have it when the crisis is resolved.
3. Be Fair
Everyone was caught off guard by the effects of COVID-19. This time of uncertainty does not give you a pass to take advantage of clients or compromise business-to-business relationships. Saving an extra dollar during these lean times may sound like the wise thing to do, but if it’s done at the expense of others, you risk ruining long-term relationships. Be fair to the people who rely on you. When you respond ethically during a crisis, you will see the return on your investment.
4. Take Care
First, make sure you’re taking care of yourself. You will come face to face with burnout if you push through a season of crisis without stopping to meet your own physical, mental, and emotional needs. Take time to rest, eat healthfully, and exercise. When you’re feeling your best, you can better take care of others. If your home to office commute has shifted to bedroom to dining room, make the most of the extra minutes you have to offer support and encouragement. Write reviews for colleagues on LinkedIn or send a message to your employees letting them know you appreciate their flexibility and work ethic during this time. Find out how your team is doing and how you can help them be successful. Taking care of your people will go a long way in motivating them to continue working hard.
While social distancing can make us feel isolated, you are not alone during this time of crisis. Front Line Leadership is equipped with a unique tool-kit to promote communication, reduce conflict, enhance team effectiveness, and more. If you need support to take your team to the next level, contact Front Line Leadership today.