Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 32:57 — 45.4MB)
Uncertain times call for strong leadership. But how can you lead when you can’t see where you’re going? With courage, grit, and grace.
In this episode, Gail and Erin discuss:
- How do you show up every day as a leader and keep your team inspired?
- Choose to make a different decision. Don’t depend on what’s always worked in the past.
- Allow for your creative process to evolve. Do things differently. Look for how and where you can improve.
When news of the coronavirus outbreak in China made headlines at the beginning of the year, Gail and Erin didn’t pay it much heed. They were focused on their business goals and implementing the ambitious plan they’d developed for 2020. It didn’t take long, however, before they realized how what was now a pandemic would impact their business and that of their clients. They quickly had to pivot and reassess their plans and budget. More importantly, they had to figure out how they were going to support their clients in lieu of face-to-face meetings.
Not assuming a leadership role was never an option. Gail recounts that once the initial shock wore off, she soon realized that focusing on problems was neither productive or helpful. Instead, by taking action and contributing, even in some small way, in service to others gave her a sense of purpose. By refocusing, staying determined, staying positive, and setting a direction, she and Erin found a way forward.
Reflecting on their 15 years together, Gail and Erin have come to recognize that major setbacks occur about every seven to eight years. Anticipating disruptions needs to be a part of business planning. “We need to be thinking about the ‘what if’ all the time,” says Gail. “If you’re not that person who’s making contingency plans for your business, then you need someone who can be that person for your team.”
When disruptions do happen, you need to deal with them proactively. As the leader in your business, you have to put your fear aside and be courageous, be willing to make tough decisions, and make multiple contingency plans for how things may develop.
If your business is down at the moment because of the pandemic, use the time to work on improving your business and your skills. Be creative. Think of what services you can offer that people need now. Don’t stop marketing. Reach out and maintain relationships with current and former clients.
Listen to the full podcast to hear more insights and advice on how to lead in uncertain times.
Mentioned in This Podcast
Not familiar with contingency planning or uncertain how to create one? This article will help to get you started: How to Create a Contingency Plan for Your Small Business