If you have ever managed a business? Then you know that it can be very difficult at times, especially if you have a team of people under your wings. Nothing has challenged businesses more than the recent pandemic and global shutdowns. The pandemic has thrown a lot of challenges our way, and it’s easy to get bogged down and feel like we’re just treading water. That’s why it’s more important than ever to be intentional about encouraging your teams. Encouragement is always needed but especially in crises, when everyone needs to know that they will come out stronger on the other side.
Here are a few ways to encourage your team during tough times.
1. Lead by Example
We should always try to lead by example, especially in troubling circumstances. Those in charge must show that they are just as dedicated to getting through the tough times as their staff are. Leaders should work hard alongside their staff and let them know that they’re in this together. A little camaraderie can go a long way towards making the team feel encouraged.
2. Acknowledge the Challenges being Faced
During crises the team is facing a lot of challenges, both personally and professionally. Acknowledging those challenges goes a long way in showing that you care about them as people, not just employees. Take some time to check in with them, ask how they’re doing, and really listen to their answers. Let them know that you see and appreciate the obstacles they’re overcoming, and this will help them feel appreciated and motivated to keep going.
3. Communicate Openly and Honestly
On that note, it’s more important than ever to keep the lines of communication open during tough times. Your team needs to know what’s going on, both with the company and with the project they’re working on. Keeping them in the loop will help them feel like they’re a part of the team and not just another cog in the machine. It will also help build trust between you and your team members. Make sure you’re communicating regularly, not just when there’s bad news to report. Be as transparent as possible, doing so will help build trust and keep everyone on the same page.
4. Encourage Collaboration
In times of crisis, it’s important to encourage your team members to work together. Brainstorming sessions can be an effective way to generate new ideas and devise creative solutions to problems. Plus, collaborating with others will help team members feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves and motivated to do whatever it takes to get through the crisis.
5. Offer Support
Your team members will likely be feeling stressed and overwhelmed during a crisis. As their leader, it’s important that you offer them support, both emotional and practical. Let them know that you’re available if they need to talk, and provide them with any resources they might need to do their jobs effectively. Taking care of your team will help them stay focused and motivated, even during a crisis.
6. Be Understanding and Flexible
During a crisis, it’s important to be understanding and flexible with your team. Things are bound to come up that you didn’t plan for. Be willing to adjust your plans as needed. And, if someone on your team is struggling, be there to support them.
7. Celebrate Successes, Big and Small
Don’t forget to celebrate successes, big and small. A crisis can be overwhelming, so it’s important to take time to celebrate the wins along the way. This will help keep your team motivated and focused on the task at hand.
8. Help them See the Light at the End of the Tunnel
It can be easy to get caught up in all the negative things that are happening, but it’s important to remember that this too shall pass. Help your team see that there is an end in sight, whether it’s the end of a project or the end of a difficult time for the company. Focusing on the positive and keeping things in perspective will help everyone stay motivated and focused on what’s important. Help your team see the light at the end of the tunnel and remind them that this is just a temporary setback.
Most businesses have been impacted in some way since the Covid outbreak, and no business is immune to tough times. It’s during these seasons that leaders need to step up and truly lead. Not just manage the day-to-day issues, but compassionately and thoughtfully navigate the challenging issues that have surfaced. Remember that your team is looking to you for guidance and reassurance. They need the security of knowing that you have their backs, and all will be well as the dust of the present turmoil settles.
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