Taking Back Control as a Leader

Taking Back Control as a Leader

There’s no denying that the COVID-19 pandemic and government mandated lockdowns has changed the way people live and work, not just in Australia, but across the world. In just 18 months, we have seen the toll the pandemic has taken on local small-and-medium businesses, we have seen loved ones being laid off from their jobs or colleagues packing up the desk of their 9 – 5 job and opting to work from home. Financial difficulties and mental health matters has also made it hard for many Australians to weather the pandemic’s storm. Now, as the country begins to reopen it can be daunting, and even challenging, to know how to prepare for life after the pandemic.

But there’s no time like the present for leaders to take back control, expand their skillset, restructure their mindset, and broaden their horizons. Times have changed and we must get with the times and adapt to the future if we are to succeed in the post-pandemic era, or else risk being left behind. Now, more than ever, we need strong and capable leaders at the forefront of our workforces and businesses.

COVID-19 has redefined the role of leadership in workplaces and businesses, which means leaders are expected to grow and develop new skills, such as more empathy, resilience, suitability and digital transformation, in this evolving environment. In fact, we are seeing more leaders and executives signing up to local business schools to do short courses to prepare themselves for post-pandemic work and future-proof their careers.

Learn more at https://www.leadershiphq.com.au/leader-development/programs/

To me, a great leader is someone who can easily adapt to changing environments, who motivates and empowers their team to achieve their best, be a greater communicator, welcomes innovation and strategic thinking and encourages kindness and empathy. I hope that this pandemic will pave the way to encouraging more leaders to be positive and forward thinkers.

So how can you take back control of your leadership?

• Lead by example – As a leader, many people look up to you as a role model. Set a good example for your employees and co-workers by valuing them, accepting responsibility, being honest and ensuring that you are a good communicator.
• Don’t be afraid to learn new skills - Train your brain to tackle a range of challenges and help yourself grow as a leader.
• Adapt to different ways of working and be open to new opportunities – We all have strengths and weaknesses, some of your employees might perform better being in an office environment while some may thrive working from home.
• Know yourself and seek self-improvement – Set aside time for personal reflection. Get to know your own values, strengths and weaknesses. You will be a better leader and person for it.
• Provide direction – Help your employees to understand their purpose.
• Improve your communication skills – Effective communication is the key to effective leadership. Take the time to listen and learn from your team. Some of us are natural communicators and for others, it may take some practise to develop oral and written communication skills.

Don't let another year go past without investing in your leadership and your team - it will give you the edge for 2022 and beyond!

Find out more about our AWESOME leadership online courses, coaching, workshops, events and customised programs for you, your team and your organisation at https://www.leadershiphq.com.au/