How Do You Motivate Staff during Uncertain Times?
How much uncertainty is there currently in your industry and your market?? In some of me recent conversations with leaders and business owners many of them have admitted that the path forward is not very clear (with a few very concerned or anxious about the next 6 months).
Why?? Tightening budgets, increased costs and keeping up with the never-ending workload are common challenges that leaders are facing.? For us to keep a competitive advantage we need to ensure that our energy and activity does not distract or bring down our staff’s performance.
Remember staff will pick up on your Concentric rings and the energy that you give off.? If you have suddenly become guarded and withdrawn, they know something is up.? Too often a distracted or unfocused leader can create a negative impact on their people and the way they perform. ?Now is the time to be more proactive in your interactions with staff to help them move through any uncertainty.
Here are a few things you can do to help keep them motivated:
1)??? Communicate Transparently: Keep your team in the loop with honest updates.? Too often leaders stop communicating and keep the office door closed or don’t provide any updates.? It is better to let staff know what is happening and what decisions have or have not been made.? Without this the rumour mill goes into overdrive!
2)??? Show Empathy: Address their concerns and provide support.? When staff are stress out due to uncertainty, it is important to make the effort to let them know that you care about them.? Sometimes having a genuine conversation and listening to their concerns allows them to vent and release some of this uncertain energy (which allows them focus on the important things!).
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3)??? Involve Them: Engage them in decision-making to boost their sense of control.? Too often leaders try to figure everything out themselves.? If people can provide more perspectives and solutions then why wouldn’t you involve key staff in strategies to move forward.
4)??? Stay Positive: Highlight opportunities and inspire optimism.? Remember no matter how difficult it gets your energy will demotivate or inspire your people.? Look for the positives and keep active on the things that matter!
If you would like a find out more or would like to learn more about my Business Leader 90 Day Performance Mentoring or my Keynotes on Staying Competitive During Uncertain Times, please click here to reach out for a discussion. ?
Stay True to Your Path
Scott