Leadership in Challenging Economic Times

The Voice Magazine ^ | May 5, 2009 | Carol Kinsey Goman

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Employees are nervous – and rightfully so. The economic crisis and its resulting layoffs, consolidations, and organizational restructuring have people worried and distracted. Motivation is down. Absenteeism is up. Everyone wants to know, “What’s going to happen to me?” Rumors are running wild.

In the midst of all this uncertainty and fear, it’s your job to help your team (or department or organization) stay engaged and focused on the business at hand. And for that, the “soft skills” of compassion, encouragement and motivation become crucial. People are looking to you for comfort and reassurance – and, most of all, for leadership by example.

Here are four recommendations to help you lead in challenging times:

Take care of yourself. In times of uncertainty people need leaders who are...