Leading a Small Business Through Times of Uncertainty

The emergence of the pandemic in 2020 made it clear that the ability of a leader to navigate through change and uncertainty is essential. While everyone hopes we can avoid future pandemics, it is also evident that we cannot prevent ever-more complex situations.

Leaders need to learn how to lead themselves to lead others through complex situations effectively. Although each individual has unique circumstances, we have identified six strategies that help improve their ability to evolve and navigate more complex problems.

Become a More Decisive Leader

A crisis marks a rapid change. Usually, leaders spend a lot of time gathering data and consulting other experts to develop a solution. In uncertain times, leaders must take action without too much time gathering information. Instead of waiting for perfection, leaders should act quickly and make informed decisions.

Sometimes, even the most unpopular decisions can be necessary. In times of crisis, business leaders are forced to suspend production or lay off employees temporarily. However, the right choices can help your company get through the storm and be ready to hire when the skies return. Consider how you communicate these difficult choices.

Not Knowing Should Be Embraced

Throughout our careers, we constantly try to find the correct answer. Since our brains are designed to perceive uncertainty as a threat or risk, it’s normal for people to feel stress when encountering unfamiliar situations. Unfortunately, avoiding the stress and discomfort of the known can prevent people from developing and improving their performance. It can also lead to a significant barrier to learning.

Embrace the discomfort as part of the learning process. This can help them relieve their pressure to find the correct answer. Welcoming the strategy of learning instead of knowing.

Make Flexibility Your Strength

One of the most critical factors that leaders should consider when making decisions is the possibility of making changes. Thinking outside the box is essential during an uncertain time.

A strategic planning process can help you develop a plan and implement new strategies. It can also help you regain control over your actions. You can make unique and innovative decisions by taking advantage of the resources you’ve never used. Adapting to the needs of your team is also a vital factor that leaders should consider. The ability to monitor and manage the actions of your employees is essential. Leaders can use are online tools that allow them to keep track of their various tasks and activities.

Always Communicate and Be Transparent

Being transparent is very important to keep your team informed about the decisions that you’re planning on making. Having the ability to share information with them can help them make informed decisions and improve their performance. It’s critical to communicate with your team members in a bidirectional manner. They should invite them to share their concerns and help them feel valued and included in the company’s future. This can help them feel more involved in the process.

When times are difficult, leaders must be vulnerable. They should allow their team members to feel valued and included in the company’s future. They should also tell them you will work together to overcome the challenges.

Stick With Your Mission

One of the most critical factors leaders should consider when making decisions is remembering their company’s mission. Leaders should ensure that their employees are focused on the organization’s core mission even if they provide a different product or service. A clear understanding of the company’s larger picture can help them make informed decisions.

When addressing your team’s various tasks and responsibilities, having a visual representation of them can help you make informed decisions. One of the most critical steps leaders should take is to recreate the previous office practices. This will allow them to keep communicating and moving forward on their goals—informed decisions. Leaders must also establish a rhythm for their team to have regular touch points.