Little-Known Secrets Influential Leaders Use to Boost Morale in Times of Change

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Change is inevitable, but it’s how we navigate it that makes all the difference. Whether it's a company-wide restructuring, a new leadership strategy, or the adoption of innovative technologies, transitions can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. As leaders, we’re not just responsible for steering the ship—we’re responsible for the well-being and morale of each of our team members as they weather the storm of change.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with two influential leaders who both possessed the rare ability to inspire and uplift their teams in the most challenging of times. They understood that change didn’t have to be a source of anxiety—it was an opportunity for growth and connection. Today, I’m going to share with you some little-known secrets that have helped leaders boost morale and create resilient teams during times of transformation.

1. The Power of Radical Transparency

One of the most underrated leadership strategies I’ve seen in times of change is radical transparency. When change hits, employees are often left in the dark, speculating with coworkers they like and even those they don't about what’s next. The uncertainty breeds fear. But when leaders make a commitment to share as much information as possible—even if it's uncomfortable—it builds trust.

I remember a time when a major shift was happening in one of the organizations I worked with. The leadership team held regular town halls, openly discussing the challenges and opportunities the change would bring. Not only did this create a sense of inclusion, but it also allowed us to feel confident in their integrity and decisions.

2. The Quiet Power of Empathy

Empathy is one of the most powerful tools in a leader’s toolkit, especially during times of transition. I’ve witnessed influential leaders who, instead of pushing forward with a “it is what it is” mentality, take the time to ask their teams how they were feeling—and appear to be truly interested in the answer. They created space for vulnerability and understanding. In doing so, they cultivated an atmosphere where employees felt supported, heard, seen, and validated.

Many leaders try and stay away from expressing vulnerability themselves, but sharing your own struggles during times of change can humanize you in ways that empower others to do the same.

3. Leverage the “Positive Disruption” Mindset

While many see change as something disruptive in a negative sense, highly influential leaders see it as positive disruption. The secret here is that disruption, in any form, can be the catalyst for creativity and innovation. I’ve seen leaders who approach change as an opportunity for reinvention, and this mindset spreads like wildfire through their teams.

When leaders frame change as an exciting challenge rather than a threat, it empowers employees to embrace it. This shift in perspective can unlock potential that even the most difficult changes can’t stifle.

4. The Subtle Art of Giving Autonomy

One of the most effective morale-boosting secrets I’ve discovered is giving team members more autonomy during times of change. While it’s tempting to micromanage to ensure everything runs smoothly, giving your employees the freedom to make decisions can foster a sense of ownership and accountability. I’ve worked with leaders who, during periods of major transition, empowered their teams to take charge of certain areas of change. Not only did this reduce the burden on leadership, but it also increased engagement and morale.

Employees feel more valued when they have control over how they contribute to the change. The result? They become more committed to the process and the organization.

5. The Hidden Power of Celebrating Small Wins

Change can feel overwhelming, and when you're in the thick of it, it can be hard to see progress. That’s why one of the most underrated secrets is celebrating the small wins. Whether it’s a team member successfully adapting to new technology or a department meeting a critical milestone, acknowledging these small victories keeps the momentum going and helps employees feel like they’re making progress—no matter how incremental.

During a large-scale change initiative I led, someone suggested we implement a "win board" where we posted every team member's accomplishment—big or small. It wasn’t just about celebrating success; it was about illuminating to the team that every contribution mattered and that we were all moving forward together.

6. Keep the Vision Alive

Lastly, during times of change, it’s easy to get lost in the chaos. But one of the most powerful leadership secrets is to keep the vision alive. (Remember, Jesse Jackson's Keep Hope Alive)? Remind your team regularly about the benefits of the change and the larger mission you’re working toward. Leaders who can anchor their teams in a shared purpose—especially in the most turbulent times—build resilience and optimism.

I’ve worked with strong, impactful leaders who never let their teams forget why they were making a change in the first place. They constantly linked day-to-day responsibilities to the larger vision and kept that vision front and center.

Ready to Lead Change?

Leading through change isn’t easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. The secrets I’ve shared today are the practices that influential leaders use to build resilient, engaged teams who thrive in the face of uncertainty. By being transparent, empathetic, and visionary, you can not only boost morale, but also inspire your team to embrace change as an opportunity to stretch and grow.

Which one will you adopt? Be a fire starter and leave a comment.

If you're ready to learn more about how to lead with influence and impact, I'm inviting you to join us at the Leaders Influencing Business and Culture Meetup. Together, we’ll explore the most effective leadership strategies for navigating change and building stronger, more resilient teams.

Let’s lead change with purpose and power—join the movement today.