Message from my friend Brian P. Moran about Leadership

I just returned from Omaha where I conducted a session with a group of CEOs that I’ve worked with for a number of years. It is a great group of guys with a lot of experience, insight and wisdom. As part of the day I presented a segment on Leading in Challenging Times that I thought I would overview for you in my blog.

During times of great change and disruption it’s common for leaders and individual producers, in a search for new answers to discard the fundamentals. Often people begin to work off plan, abandon structures and processes, and unplug from support systems. During these times leadership is especially critical; leadership is the difference. Below are 7 things leaders can do to keep their teams focused and productive.

1. Re-emphasize Vision, Values and Goals – People need to be reminded that despite the difficult times we still intend to achieve our vision, maintain our values and set and accomplish our goals.

2. Reinforce the Contribution – It’s important in times of change that people feel valued and that they are making a difference for the company and for the customers. Take the time to verbalize the contribution each of your people make.

3. Keep Processes Intact – This is critical. Now more than ever people need process, structure and direction. It is essential to sort out the noise from meaningful work. Reinforce plan execution as the way through. Keep the discipline and rigor in place.

4. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate – It is easy in difficult times, when the news is not always good, to communicate less. Sometimes we feel like there is nothing new to discuss. Other times we might feel like “they can’t handle the truth.” Don’t let this happen. If the communication stops, the grapevine will run rampant and wreak havoc. Think “over communicate.”

5. Encourage, Reward and Celebrate – When times are tough you need to find things to celebrate. Remember mindset is everything. Find reasons to encourage and reward. Recognize effort and progress. Celebrate the small wins.

6. Leaders Must be Visible & Involved – People look to the leadership. In challenging times people look for reassurance and signs that things will get better. You cannot lead from the back, you need to be visible.

7. Leverage the Team – You don’t need to do it all yourself. Lean on the combined strengths of the team. In addition, take advantage of the challenges your organization is facing to intentionally develop your team by giving stretch assignments and letting others step up and lead.

Get out front and lead!

http://www.brianpmoran.com/blog/