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It is difficult to lead in these uncertain times when working at a distance and talking to silent audiences in one virtual meeting after another. We have more fear, stress, and anxiety regarding the health of ourselves and our families, the precariousness of our businesses or employment, and the future. We are dealing with so many emotions and realities– there is a lot on!!

All this calls for inspirational leadership – leaders who use their unique combination of strengths to motivate individuals and teams to take on bold missions and see results.  Here are 7 key strategies for these uncertain times.

1.      Demonstrate Grace and Positivity under Pressure

Leaders need to be gracious, composed, and optimistic under pressure. This is only possible when resilience is built through sufficient rest, exercise, good nutrition, staying organized, asking for help when necessary, and devoting time to professional development. Also, it is easy to show up and criticize as a spectator.  Inspirational leaders model positivity – and a reaction-oriented on what they can control. If they roll up their sleeves and offer to do things within the scope of possibility, it will encourage others to do likewise because positivity is infectious.

2.     Listen Wholeheartedly

With 2 or 3 screens going during meetings, talking while typing, or trying to hear over background noise, it is almost impossible to give colleagues your full attention.  It is important to recognize what type of listener you are:

·        Cosmetic Listener: Doesn’t listen at all

·        Conversational Listener: Listens only to find a gap to speak and doesn’t take in what the other person is saying

·        Content Listener: Listens enough to start understanding what is being said

·        Exquisite Listener: Understands the content and reads between the lines

Being an exquisite listener is not automatic, but it something you can learn.  It is not about using an on/off switch, but more like using a dial where improvement is experienced overtime.  A great way to start is by setting short periods of time (e.g.: 5 min.) to only listen and write down what you hear.  Moving on to reflective activities where you paraphrase what has been said with, “So what I’ve heard you say is x, y, z,” is extremely effective in wholehearted listening.

3.     Speak Up

In virtual meetings, aim to be noticed because decisions are made by people who show up and speak up. Instead of keeping your camera off because you think you don’t look your best, and near the end of the meeting contributing an uninspiring comment in the chat, just to say you were there, you need to have visibility.  Get ready for the day, turn on your camera, and talk about your points of view and achievements, speaking clearly, calmly, and optimistically.

4.     Deliver Feedback in a Caring Way

In uncertain times, leaders worry about what their staff/business associates are carrying, so they are reluctant to give much feedback.  Even at the best of times, 44% of managers find delivering constructive feedback stressful or difficult, and 21% avoid it altogether (Harvard Business Review).  First, ban the word ‘feedback’ from your vocabulary, because as soon as you use it, people stop listening.  Then, come alongside the person in a sincere, caring way, and share your insight with them without a lot of emotion or embarrassment. E.g.:  

“That’s a great start. Let’s set some time aside to talk about new strategies that will take your idea to the next level.”

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