Leadership in the post pandemic workforce

LEADERSHIP

Leadership in the post-pandemic workforce

Since the social restrictions introduced in 2020 forced much of the workforce to conduct business remotely, employers have been preparing for what the workplace will look like moving forward. Michelle Gibbings offers some tips for leading in the new working world

WITH COVID-19 has come challenge and opportunity for workplaces. As you look to the future as a business leader, what do you want to leave behind and carry forward in terms of how you work?

Answering this question is important on two fronts. First, it’s too soon to go back to pre-pandemic ways of working, and second, COVID has accelerated workplace change, with much of it here to stay.

Deciding how to go forward starts with identifying what’s working for you, your team and your organization. Think about what you have enjoyed, the benefits you have gained and why you want them to continue. Write these thoughts down and reflect on why they matter.

Next, look at what hasn’t worked and why. Identifying the root cause is important to determine if a new way of working should be disbanded or just needs to be tweaked. It can be helpful to invite your team members to participate in this review so you get their perspective on the workplace. Doing this also helps build their buy-in and commitment to future change.

Recognize different needs As part of this process, recognize that the level of adjustment and adaptation required across workplaces has and will continue to be mixed.

For some employees, the rapid move to working from home has been successful, meaning less commuting, better work-life balance and access to effective technology to support productivity. For others, it has been stressful if they are juggling homeschooling or lack a defined workspace or the technology they need to work effectively. Added to that, people who draw energy from connecting with their colleagues are missing the office banter and casual conversations.

These impacts translate into variations in productivity and engagement. Consequently, it’s essential to recognize each team member’s needs and understand what they require to be at their best at work.

Create choice Many organizations are now using the term ‘work from anywhere,’ signifying that the traditional model of sourcing employees who are willing to be locally based or to travel frequently has shifted. This opens organizations to a broader talent pool. For employees, it also means they are no longer geographically hamstrung when it comes to applying for new roles.

Also, some people are keen to get back to the office and others less so. Examine your workforce and roles to determine the options and flexibility that can continue.

It’s essential to recognize each team member’s needs and understand what they require to be at their best at work

Know when virtual doesn’t work Working from home is here to stay, but connection and time spent with team members and colleagues will always be necessary. Humans are tribal creatures who are hardwired for connection. Part of the joy that people experience at work comes from the banter and chats they have with their colleagues. Nothing can replace the casual corridor conversation or chat in the break room.

Recognize that not everything can be done remotely (or done as effectively remotely). Leaders will want to consider where face-toface sessions are more productive and effective, and where remote will work just as well. Step up and lead Leadership matters, whatever the working environment – be it the office or home. The best leaders appreciate this and are shifting and elevating their leadership style to suit these new circumstances. They understand that in times of challenge and uncertainty, they need to provide more, not less, leadership.

People want to feel they matter and know they are valued. Leaders should continue to set regular times to check in with their teams. These check-ins aren’t just about how tasks are progressing; they’re about finding out how the team member is doing in terms of emotional and mental health, too. Support healthy practices Central to creating a healthy environment is the relationship a leader has with their team. Successful relationships are underpinned by psychological safety – an environment in which people are comfortable sharing what is or isn’t working for them and how they are feeling, and being their authentic selves.

It helps if leaders role model self-care behaviors. Encourage your team to take care of their physical and mental health. Suggest they take regular breaks, notice and manage workplace stress, and have a safe space where they can talk about their mental health and well-being.

Michelle Gibbings is a workplace expert and the author of Step Up: How to Build Your Influence at Work , Career Leap: How to Reinvent and Liberate your Career, and the new book Bad Boss: What to Do if You Work for One, Manage One or Are One .