Leading through uncertain times

                                                       

Uncertainty promotes a wide range of perceptions and feelings - doubt, skepticism, mistrust and suspicion. It reflects our struggle to navigate a world where evidence, information or insight about the present or the future may be in short supply. So how does a leader guide others through uncertain times?

When faced with uncertainty, people look to leaders tfor specific qualities - acknowledgement of the situation, calmness, steadiness, steadfastness, and clarity. In uncertain times, people can only have confident in their leaders when there is clarity of purpose, priorities, and expectations. Even when the long term seems so far in the distance, leaders can explain what the next milestone is and provide confidence that it is achievable. Breaking down complex issues into concrete, achievable milestones reduces anxiety, and recognises that adaptability is essential when the world is shifting around us. 

Transparent communication builds trust, and trust fuels followership when the path ahead is unclear. Leaders who move beyond simply listening to truly hearing the concerns and ideas of others are leaders who have empathy, are open, and learn continuously from diverse perspectives. 

Leaders who are present, grounded provide stability for themselves and others in uncertain times. Uncertainty may be unavoidable, but with transparency, clarity, adaptability, and compassion, leaders can guide their teams with confidence and purpose.