Writing in C&IT Magazine, Andrew Reid says that the biggest problem faced at this tricky time is the uncertainty. No one knows how long things will go on as they are, or what the aftermath will bring.
The key to survival, according to Reid, lies in “collaborating as a tight-knit team” focused on “shaping the future and keeping communication real.” He suggests a number of leadership qualities you’ll need to help pull your workers and your business through to the other side.
By working remotely your employees are protecting themselves and each other. Their safety (and yours) is critical so acknowledge that they’re doing their part and thank them for it regularly.
Keep your team up to date with how your business is doing.
Is there a risk of job cuts or major changes? Is their job safe?
Alleviate any fears or anxieties by being honest and painting a realistic picture.
As mentioned above, try to communicate with your team at least once a day to touch base, to share any news and to pass on industry updates.
Involve your whole team in thinking about what they can do to make life easier once the situation resolves itself. This is a good way to get lots of ideas and to keep employees invested in your company’s success.
You can’t be an effective leader if you’re struggling to cope. Talking to colleagues about the situation can help you unburden yourself and put things into perspective.
It’s an unusual situation where things can change in a flash, so be ready for some quick decision-making.
This can be difficult depending on your personal circumstances, but humor can help lift your mood.
There’s also the option of organising events outside office hours that staff can get involved in, such as online quizzes, puzzles and games.
That includes furloughed staff, who might not be working but who can still access online training opportunities that will help them readjust back into the fold when the dust settles.
Being an effective leader is about setting the tone of the organisation and remote workplaces makes it even more difficult, but the leader must never lose focus nor give up on creating a team of effective and loyal workers.
