So, you are a leader. Times are tough. The US had a record number of people file for unemployment at over 16M in the last three weeks when the highest record for a week prior to that was just under 700k. So now what?
As leaders, we need to be the rock, the solid foundation for our teams. We need to be steady, explain that we don’t have the answers but ask our teams for help on addressing our new unknown. We have seen distilleries break into the hand sanitizer game, dentist making face masks, and clothing companies making scrubs for healthcare workers.
I would ask you to have a growth mindset. If you are unsure what your company’s future looks like because your industry has been shut down, ask your teams what they can do to help the world right now.
I am struggling with a company who in this crazy time, led with layoffs when they have equipment that can be repurposed for so many things that could bring them revenue and help the world right now. Give your teams time to think about how they could help in the current environment instead of being afraid to pivot and use the great skillset of you people and the use of your machines. This company is leading with a fixed mindset.
Here is an article from “New York” magazine which is focusing on the fixed mindset. Robert Chatburn is definitely operating from a fixed mindset. Instead of saying what can’t be, let’s figure out a way to make it happen. General Patton said, “Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their ingenuity.”
Leaders, if you are struggling right now, ask your teams to think outside the box. Give them creative space to think about it. What can they come up with may not only help your situation but help the human race right now.
If your leadership team needs help moving to a growth mindset and to empowerment. Let me know. I can help.