These days? complexities that organisations experience are unparalleled and can seem devastating. These comprises of disturbances in services and sales, the necessity to keep brands pertinent as well as handling a team that has been operating remotely and under challenging circumstances. Aspects such as health and well-being of team-mates, guidance and supporting the society; all must have equal place on the priority list of a manager or leader of any organization.
However, circumstances can be handled by adequate planning and care and the retrieval can prove to be multi-dimensional. Initially, it requires for a leader or manager to offer strong direction and trustworthy communication internally and externally. Communication that bridges the gap with varied associates and helps remain focused on what is critical for customer in the prevailing socio-economic environment should be considered as the most critical aspect for any business or service provider.
Another dimension could be to customize product or service, as there can?t be a single solution, not even for the same problem. It requires thorough urge to adapt to changing circumstances, being authentic while communicating and mindful to the changing climate in these times.
Managers or future leaders will be remembered as much for their communication and consideration (read: kindness) as for decision making ability in such times. The way decision will be communicated in these times will assure in not only championing the customers but also will ensuring your team?s support and will result in accelerating your career trajectory. It will also result in nurturing lifelong relationships with everyone around. The communication that took place in time through different modes will help create your image as a valued, trustworthy and compassionate leader or manager.
Some of the interesting examples have been Anand Mahindra and Ratan Tata. With the help of social media as well as traditional communication sources, these leaders communicated and highlighted various initiatives during such crisis with the internal and external stakeholders. Their empathetic approach reflected on their resilience to changing times.
It is evident that with the innate uncertainty there is a fear, which, if directed and communicated positively, can produce great results. For that, it has been critical that managers or leaders raise the frequency of their communication and be open to dialogue ? it can help their employees or team remain composed and can encourage performing better, no matter how tough the situation would turn out to be. Leaders can communicate with their team with the help of different media be it blogs, through social engagement initiatives, online communities and likewise. This will help overcome the remoteness between teams and can pave way for an improved sense of assurance and inspiration for business and work.
The epidemic has been catastrophic with its ups and downs and as consequence, many managers and leaders may feel exhausted and unprepared to manage the unprecedented events. That has been the reason why continuous communication, be it online or offline proved to be the sure-shot. A thoroughly charted communication approach powered with detailed understanding and sentiment would be rudimentary and will aid in sharing your story right.
It?s just crucial to note for managers and leaders is that there will never be any substitute for authenticity in communication that translates into consideration and action. So, be authentic, in all your communication and the success will be guaranteed!!!
Author : Dr Krishna Kanabar, Assistant Professor