How To Lead Through Uncertainty

By Jillian Broaddus and Chuck Cusumano

If there’s one thing that the past few years have taught us, it’s that we never know what is next. From the COVID-19 pandemic to the rise of AI and all of the world events in between, there are constant surprises around every corner, which can create a sense of unsettledness—in our economy, our mindsets, and our leadership styles.

How can you successfully lead when you don’t know what’s coming in the next week, month, or year?  It all comes down to a few key basics that can help you lead through uncertainty.

Here our top 3 tips:

1. Focus on Adaptability—The #1 leadership trait for a leader who can confidently handle any roadblock or detour on their path to success is adaptability. And, fortunately, adaptability CAN be practiced and strengthened. Forcing ourselves out of our comfort zones in all aspects of life—think traveling, physical challenges, and putting ourselves out there for feedback—are all actionable ways to strengthen our abilities to adapt. 

   Questions to ask: Where would you rank your adaptability as a leader and what can you do this week to become more adaptable?

2. Stay Aware—Being able to adapt as the future comes (flying) at you requires, first and foremost, keeping your finger on the pulse of your organization.  Being present and knowing what is happening (both in a big-picture sense and all the way down to the details) will provide you clarity to see all of the options at your fingertips when it comes to possible paths forward.  Plus, Fast Company reports additional reasons leadership awareness is critical: “In recent Potential Project research, teams led by highly aware leaders reported 78% higher trust in the company’s leadership, 57% higher psychological safety, and 56% higher commitment to the company.” 

   Questions to ask: How are things going on a team-wide and organization-wide scope?  What gaps do you have in leadership visibility and awareness?

3. Build a Strong Team—The best defense you can have in your back pocket to weather any storm? A competent crew you can confidently rely on.  Sports teams and large organizations alike know that the leader/coach alone doesn’t create victories; the team must also be adaptable and aware to win. 

   Questions to ask: Can you count on your team for support in leading through uncertainty? What can you do to boost alignment so that you can steer, pivot, and move better together?

Let us know how we can help you further as you dive into these topics!  Simply email us at hello@thejoshuagroup.net.