Strategic Leadership: Embracing Preparation Over Panic

Welcome to the 11th installment of IRON HRO! It brings me great pleasure to introduce our esteemed Chief People Officer, Crystal Riganat .

In this enlightening dialogue, Crystal delves into a pivotal insight: preparation serves as a cornerstone for successfully navigating uncertainty and steering towards favorable outcomes. In moments of crisis or change, how HR leaders manage their reactions can shape not only their own effectiveness but also the confidence and resilience of those they lead.

Her commitment to "preparation over panic" will serve as inspiration for everyone.

Please enjoy the newest IRON HRO newsletter!

Amanda: How do you believe HR leaders can effectively manage their reactions to unexpected changes?

Crystal: In times of crisis or change, it's natural for panic and negativity to surface. As leaders, how we respond in these moments can define our effectiveness and inspire confidence in those we lead. Preparation, not panic, emerges as the guiding principle for navigating uncertainty and driving positive outcomes.

As a leader, it's important to remain calm and focused during challenging times. Your team will look to you for guidance, so it's essential to project confidence and composure.

Work with your team to identify potential crises or changes that could affect your organization and develop contingency plans for each scenario. These plans should outline specific actions to take in response to each situation.

When faced with challenges in the workplace, most employees turn to HR for guidance, corrective action, and ultimately, a resolution. It is our responsibility as professionals in this field to step up, provide support, and lead with resilience, empathy, and a clear plan forward.

Amanda: Can you recall a pivotal moment in your own experience where preparation played a crucial role in your ability to handle a challenging situation effectively?

Crystal: Reflecting on formative experiences sheds light on the power of preparation. Consider my early days as a high school intern at a Seattle bank. Tasked with the responsibilities of a teller, I encountered a pivotal moment when faced with a robbery. Thanks to thorough training, I responded calmly and effectively. This taught me a valuable lesson: solid preparation lays the groundwork for confident action.

Fast forward to the onset of the pandemic in February 2020. As a solo HR department responsible for a geographically dispersed workforce, the weight of ensuring employee well-being fell squarely on my shoulders. With no playbook to follow, I chose to lean into the challenge. Through relentless learning and staying abreast of guidelines from authoritative sources, I crafted and communicated policies that kept our employees safe. This experience reinforced the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in leadership.

Amanda: In today's dynamic business environment, the role of HR has evolved significantly. How do you perceive the importance of soft skills like communication and empathy in navigating this landscape effectively?

Crystal: The imperative for strategic leadership is clearer than ever. Human Resources professionals find themselves at the nexus of stakeholder and employee expectations. Merely executing tasks is insufficient; proactive awareness of how our actions resonate across the organization is paramount.

The cultivation of soft skills—such as effective communication and empathy—is a linchpin for success. During times of crisis or change, communication is key. Be transparent with your team about what is happening and what steps are being taken to address the situation. Provide regular updates and encourage open dialogue.

Amanda: What lessons have you learned from your experiences as a leader, particularly in facing challenges and pivotal moments?

Crystal: In my journey as a leader, I've encountered numerous challenges and pivotal moments. Each instance has reinforced the value of preparation and a proactive mindset. It's essential to afford ourselves grace, recognizing that growth stems from learning and reflection. Preparation, not panic, remains the cornerstone of effective leadership in an ever-changing world.

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Written by Amanda Rassi

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