How to Boss Back Fear

As leaders, we are accustomed to challenge. It’s the nature of our role – some might even say we thrive on it.

The past few years, however, have tested the most resilient among us. The pandemic, war, rising interest rates and recession, have impacted our businesses and working lives.

So how do we lead forward in these times of uncertainty?

1. Leverage a Business Mindset

Ask yourself this question: In a time of restructuring and business model disruption, what problems will my stakeholders pay me to solve? Asking this will help you stay relevant and be viewed as a strategic partner.?

A few industries are experiencing a windfall of growth, but many are suffering. If your C-suite colleagues are making cuts, you will be expected to do your share. It’s important to get ahead of the game rather than sidelined because you don’t make the right compromises. It’s more of an art rather than a science.

Consider this exercise: Think through where you can cut back without sacrificing essential functions, and be ready with your “crisis plan” (e.g. temporary cutback). Come to the table with a proposal before you’re asked (or told). If cost reductions are necessary, being proactive helps to ensure you have a strong voice in the decision.

I recently strategized with one of my coaching clients, and we outlined his negotiation with his executive team. He proposed delaying a major IT implementation by 6 months – in exchange for an airtight promise that it would be in next year's budget.?

2. Strategize Around Influence and Power

Having a strong network is key to being informed of current business challenges and revenue-generating strategies in order to align your strategic focus and stay relevant. Now is the time to double down on your network. Make a list of your top 5 internal stakeholders. Set up time with them every couple of weeks, and ask three questions: 1) What is their toughest challenge? 2) How can you help? and 3) What one thing can you do to be more effective in your role?

This demonstrates many leadership skills (e.g., empathy, partnership, courage, and humility) that are always key to success, and become critical in a crisis.

And if you have a new boss, check out my recent Fast Company article for further guidance.

3. Cultivate Presence?

Some days this is easier said than done, but it’s important to boss back fear. The ability to remain calm and clear-headed while others are panicking or behaving badly inspires confidence in you as a leader. In times of extended challenge like the one we’re going through, publicly maintaining presence for long periods requires a foundation of mental fortitude and resilience.

Let gravitas center you to act from a place of strength.?Commit to a personal strategy for refreshing your energy reserve, through a deliberate practice of self-care. Get up and move between meetings, call a friend or work colleague to check in on how they’re doing, take an extended lunch break to go for a run, listen to some of your favorite music. Set healthy limits for you and your team – especially if you're full time remote, don’t allow your flow to get sapped from too many Zoom meetings.

4. Create a Culture of Safety By Meeting People Where They Are

A lot of people are operating in fear – for their job security, personal finances, their emotional and physical well-being. As leaders cultivating a healthy workplace, we know the importance of psychological safety and organizational fairness – required?for creating a speak up culture. No one can focus on the work if this basic need is not met.

Given the intense business stress they're under, many of my clients have been frustrated with their teams. If this describes you, read my recent Harvard Business Review article on 6 questions to ask that will enable you to balance accountability with empathy.

There will always be another crisis.

Leaders need to be thinking about these issues and how we do our job. What we do – providing value to our customers, seeking meaningful work, and helping people and organizations do the right thing - will not change, and that will be our north star through this change curve.

Have additional tips? I'd love to hear them in the comments section below.

Amii

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