Leaders are Connected in Times of Crisis.....Are You?

This is a guest post from my friend and leadership guide, Dr. Kim Moore. Dr. Kim has personally mentored and challenged me to launch out of my comfort zone into my gifting zone. She has helped me build on my purpose and passion so that I can be in position to serve others well.

As we continue to embrace remote working as a result of COVID-19, many leaders are asking how do I remain connected during this time of crisis?

Well, it’s a great question.

COVID-19 has changed how we work, play, and communicate. It has also changed how we interact with others. When I go into the grocery store, I wear a mask, gloves, and stand six feet away from other patrons.

When my husband and I want to check on our children, we facetime them because everyone is exercising social distance. During our walks, I see more families out walking and biking in our neighborhood. Puzzles and board games are en vogue again.

Working remotely has pushed us out of our comfort zone. Yes, the world has changed. We are spending hours upon hours on video conference calls. But as leaders, we still have a responsibility to lead!

We must recognize working remotely requires a new set of rules. Yes, we can still pick up the phone and call someone, but chances are they are on a video call. So how can we stay connected and provide leadership?

Before we can lead others, we must lead ourselves. Although you are working remotely, it is essential to establish a daily routine.

I know it’s very comforting to curl up in your favorite bathrobe; however, it is vital to start your day as if you are going into the office. That’s right! Set your alarm, make your bed, take a shower, and get dressed.

Now that you’re ready to work, it’s time to leverage this opportunity to provide leadership. This is what has worked for me, and maybe a good starting point for you:

• Establish a routine meeting schedule to check-in with your team
• Set clear expectations and guidelines for virtual meetings
• Structure virtual meetings to allow equity of voice among all team members
• Tune-up your non-verbal communication skills so you are sensitive to team members body language
• Schedule one-on-one sessions with team members to gather information and build consensus

Remember, your team is looking to you for leadership. In addition to conducting business, take time to check on your team’s emotional well being.

You’re the leader!
It’s essential to remain calm and model the four C’s of leadership:

1. Competence
2. Candor
3. Connection
4. Character

Yes, we are living in a difficult time; however, working remotely doesn’t alleviate us of our responsibility to lead.

“In a moment of crisis, reactions set the leaders apart from the followers.”

Peter Stark

Are you staying connected during this time of crisis?

#YourLeadershipGuide
Kim

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"This guest post was originally published on kimdmoore.com by Dr. Kim Moore, #YourLeadershipGuide, Crossroads Career Volunteer, DISC Consultant, and certified coach, speaker, and trainer with The John Maxwell Team."