Tips to Manage Your Team Effectively During a Crisis
The role played by business leaders, are undeniably important, especially during any crisis. A business leader should always be capable to manage the team and nurture positivity within the team, especially during troubling times of crisis. Crises may vary in magnitude and types.
These crises may include lawsuits, customer crises, complaints, financial crises, or even a global crisis, such as the one we are going through right now. Leaders who were previously focused on driving productivity and revenue, and also fostering innovative ideas, should step up their game when crises hit.
Make Appropriate Decisions
To effectively manage the team during the crisis, the leader should be able to make rapid decisions, for the greater good. A defined step of instructions to follow during crises simply does not exist. However, to keep your team members positive, engaged, and help them tackle the crisis, some common strategies could be adapted. It should be kept in mind that these aren’t textbook rules to manage a team during a crisis. A great leader improvises, envisions, engages in dialogue, and makes decisions.
Be honest and open with your team. Do not try to manipulate or deceive your team. This could further worsen the situation. Going silent on your group will carve out space for pessimism, rumors, and conflicts within the team.
Eliminate the Chances of Panic
To bring down speculation, fear, and panic, share relevant information with your group in a strictly professional manner. Ensure that people are provided with space to voice over their questions and concerns about the ongoing crisis. With constantly evolving trends that define business, information is apparently helpful in maintaining a sense of control within the group.
However, setting boundaries is equally important as is keeping your team informed. There are certain things that should be kept behind the doors, to eliminate the chances of panic. What information should be kept under closed doors, and what should be released? There is no defined answer to this question. This differs according to the gravity of the situation. It is also dependent on numerous factors involved. In case you are unsure about what information should be released, enquire with your boss. Make sure that you do not make any mistakes so that any confidential information is exposed to the public.
Work Together as a Team
As a leader, your team members look up to you to lead them in times of crisis. Ensure that everyone works together as a team, and clear any confusion and negativity in the air. Make sure that your attitude towards the team is logical and consistent. Make sure that the members are not insecure or uneasy, as this may directly affect productivity.
When you are leading your team through a crisis, keep your tasks and deadlines organized. Declutter and manage your office. An unorganized workspace may lead to further confusion and negligence. Staying organized will help you to deal with crises efficiently. Crises are inevitable, but it is important to stay composed during crises. These tips will be helpful to manage your team going through times of crisis.
