As the world goes into meltdown, a crisis such as coronavirus clears space for leaders to be a voice of reason and calm, especially for those in small business who are facing catastrophic repercussions to their economy.
When we emerge post-COVID-19, a new normal will have to be established. The way we do business will change and how we led through tough times will be scrutinised. Leadership is more than a certificate or degree or title; it’s a way of acting.
Kim Liddell, general manager of Street Science, said a leader’s role is to be present, calm and real. “We must be transparent and think outside the box. Unprecedented times will force our hand to be more innovative than ever before to continue to reach our customers,” she says.
One strong message from leaders that’s emerging is the call for self-care. Fiona Kesby, CEO of Go-VA, shares, “It’s time to get back to the basics of good hygiene, wash hands, sleep, eat well and keep up social distancing only heading out for what is a necessity and avoid crowds. As a leader, you must take care of yourself so you can take care of your team.”
“In a time of crisis, leadership is under the spotlight. Humans respond with either fear or love. I chose and ask myself am I responding with love with everything I do?”.
Small Business Expo CEO Paula Brand said the most important thing for a leader to do is be strong and firm. She adds, “It is also time to communicate often with your members/community/tribe. It’s not time to pass on misinformation and half-truths. Being truthful and positive, and looking beyond the disaster, and assisting with plans for recovery will position you as someone to follow.”
Struggle is an integral aspect of business. Trevor Glass, a business psychology specialist, said a leader who understands the struggle, especially now, will find they can build a rock solid following moving forward.
“Leaders get the difference between the struggle and goals. People are looking for someone who has a compelling vision to help them overcome the struggle. In the face of current adversities and fear, a person who can show others how to struggle well and can define what about this situation is worth struggling for will lead the way,” he says.
With all that is going on, it is easy to slip up and damage your personal and professional brand. Getting pulled along by the crowd or getting caught up in the hype is not leadership.
Lauren Clemett, international personal branding specialist, said leaders do not get pulled along. “A leader considers all the facts, speaks from the heart and is the calm voice in the panic,” she says. “It’s your responsibility as a leader in your space to be rational and relevant, and if you don’t have anything to add to the ‘experts’ opinions and instructions, it’s ok to say nothing.”
A good leader considers what is happening and even though events are moving at a frenetic pace, with things changing day by day, there is always time to do research and get informed.
beinc.’s CEO Hayley Birtles-Eades said leaders are not the ones panicking. “Don’t panic but do get urgent, make sure you and your business are covered and protected and if you’re not, figure out how to cover and protect yourself,” she says.
“Seek out opportunities and rise to the top, now is not the time to pull back, it’s the time to strip back and pick up the nuggets of gold that do work and run with that.”
Annette Densham, Founder, The Audacious Agency
