The uncertainty faced by businesses around the world will test even the greatest managers and leaders.
Communicate and then communicate some more
Uncertainty produces anxiety throughout your team, other employees, your firm’s customers, suppliers and investors. Silence is not an option as that is often interpreted as bad news.
Establish regular catch-ups
Thanks to technology such as Skype, Facetime or Zoom, it’s easy to have online face-to-face meetings with your remote workers. Create a structure that includes weekly or bi-weekly team meetings and regular one-to-one catch up meetings.
You don’t want your people to feel like they are being micro-managed but you do need them to feel like they are part of a team, even when they are working from home
Embrace your human side
Nobody expects you to have all the answers. It’s ok to ask your people to share their ideas and opinions. Try to put yourself in their shoes – what projects would you want to get involved with if you were in their position? Be sensitive to the fear of change. Changes in circumstances tend to activate feelings of uncertainty among employees.