Has the era of uncertainty changed the way you lead?

There are now so many things that we view differently after all the challenges of the last few years.

Six months into my role as CEO of ManpowerGroup, one of the changes I’ve noticed is the way that many employees seem more reflective, more empathetic and perhaps less outwardly assertive.

I’m not entirely sure why this is, or if it’s more widespread than we realise.

My guess is that after everything that’s been thrown at us over the course of the pandemic, many people are less certain about the future and less assured that leaders have all the answers in uncertain times.

It raises the question of whether workplace attitudes and the expectations of leaders have shifted during the pandemic.

There’s no question that, traditionally, many organisations have looked to strong, tough and resilient leaders – those who lead from the front and don’t take a backward step in the face of adversity.

I was struck by a recent article from Sydney-based consultancy Growth Faculty explaining what they think occurred when the pandemic upended our lives: “In 2020 we all got thrown into a washing machine. Autocratic leadership style went down the plug with the dirty water.”

Thrown into a washing machine, indeed!

I’ve certainly noticed a distinct change in the tone of many workplace conversations, in the willingness to engage, and in the more open mindset that prevails. It’s as if qualities such as fairness and empathy – perhaps once seen as weakness – are now valued in an environment characterised by change, uncertainty, and unpredictability.

Sometimes, not having all the answers can be seen as threatening. However, it can also be a powerful stimulant to new thinking.

Bill Treasurer, the founder of Giant Leap Consulting put it this way: “People and organisations don’t grow in a zone of comfort; we grow, progress, and evolve in a zone of discomfort.”

I’ve valued the flourishing of ideas that uncertainty can bring. It broadens the range of voices, brings new insights, and forces us to dismantle barriers that may have confined creative thought.

I think we may have entered an era where there is a more honest rendering of ideas – whether that’s in business, politics, or the community.

Personally, I have found it refreshing and rewarding. I’ve valued the openness and diversity that it’s brought to decision-making and strategy.

We may not have all the answers; we may not be able to guarantee what tomorrow will bring. That doesn’t mean we should be any less confident in our ability to explore fresh ideas.