The London Marathon 2020 could not take place, so it became the 2.6 challenge. Our efforts comprised millions of press ups, burpees and star jumps, all building blocks for and, together, the equivalent of many marathons. The down-but-not-out marathon symbolises the disruption we are experiencing that has led to change for all of us. The question is whether it might lead to a better future for us, our communities and the planet.
The extent of change due to Covid-19 is different for everyone and nothing can be taken for granted as the situation develops. Some of us may have a spring in our step, some need hydration and others are hitting ‘the wall’, unsure how they will be at the finish line; family, jobs, livelihoods are at risk. And the situation is still evolving; it is a marathon journey.
Four practical steps that business leaders can take to sustain their people
Recognise the Depth of and Differences in Disruption
Appreciate that disruption is occurring at the level of our basic needs; physiological, safety and love and belonging. It will continue even as we emerge out of this lockdown, causing significant emotional impact and distraction. People need time and, possibly, support to deal with that disruption. They can then bring their best selves to deal with disruption in the workplace and make the most of their capabilities for the future of the business. Leaders need to ensure their own basic needs are being met so they can show empathy and be responsive and decisive.
Make space for discussions about how team members are dealing with disruption in their lives. These should take place separately to conversations about job and business performance and should be on a 1-to-1 level where possible. Virtual group meetings can also be geared to enable people to share their stories; storytelling can engage people and inspire creativity and resilience. For some, additional support or therapy may need to be put in place. Leaders at every level can take the initiative and we can all find ways to allow in this culture of compassion, sharing and supporting.
Communicate Honestly & Frequently
Communicate honestly and openly by being transparent as to how decisions are made and what factors came into consideration. There are options rather than clear answers and choosing a course of action brings risk. Inaction will not find a way forward. Adopting an agile approach, learning from every step and being willing to change course where necessary, will.
• Communicate what is planned, what is expected of employees and stakeholders. When that changes, communicate again, this builds trust.
• Remind people what are the values and purpose of the business, how new strategies support these and how they contribute to the future viability and purpose of the business.
• Recognise that we are all experiencing change and are learning together. Good leaders will take time to hear from people at all levels of the organisation and show compassion.
Focus on Strengths
Recognise and use your strengths and find strengths in your team members that show responsiveness to this way of working; give those team members the challenge they need. A useful tool for identifying top strengths is offered by VIA. In parallel, build support for those who might be approaching ‘the wall’, possibly through a ‘buddy’ system or counselling. This balance may shift over time. Remember that when people are feeling vulnerable, they may not put their views forward and cannot contribute creatively and rationally to the future of the business.
Step back and Learn
Step back periodically and observe what is working or not in different situations. Be prepared to change course. Observe how people are responding. Keep a journal to help with this. Use meetings and communication to reach out, learn and empathise, and with support of employees and stakeholders, sustain the business for the Covid-19 marathon and beyond.
Margaret O’Riordan is a Fellow of the ACT and one of six coaches giving back time during COVID-19. To find out more about the Time Critical Conversations initiative please visit treasurers.org/membership/covid-19-coaching.
