“I’m working harder and longer during these pandemic days”, says the President/CEO of a law firm, during a recent conversation with me.

I asked, “Are you getting more accomplished?”

“No! I’m getting less done.”

“Why is that?”

“I’m spending part of each day talking to everyone in our firm. It’s an email, or it’s a 1:1 phone call, or it’s a group zoom meeting. And we’re not talking about our clients here. I’m trying to keep them inspired during these challenging times.”

My CEO client nails it.

Here is the #1 strategy to lead during a crisis: Empower others.

As the head of your organization you are the voice. Are you communicating inspiration or desperation?

Marcel Schwantes writes in Inc.com,

“Bill Gates said something years ago that should resonate deep within the collective conscience of leaders everywhere. The co-founder of Microsoft pointed out: ‘As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others.’”

To fast forward to today’s stay-at-home economy Gates’ admonition holds true. Schwantes comments,

“To Gates’ point, whatever you thought about leaders before the outbreak, one thing remains true for either office or remote settings: Great leaders set themselves apart by effectively influencing and empowering other human beings.”

My CEO client is correct – he is working harder and longer right now.

My CEO client is incorrect – he is not getting less done. He’s enacting the absolute right strategy for the long run… he’s empowering others.

Your Speak For Yourself® Empowerment Tips:

• Listen to your team – collectively and individually.
• Be empathetic.
• Don’t avoid small talk.
• Communicate hope.
• Show and share your appreciation.

To lead effectively during the good and bad times you must empower others.

Thank you to @WalkingBuddy for sending me this Inc.com article.

Source: https://www.inc.com/marcel-schwantes/bill-gates-explains-what-separates-successful-leaders-from-everyone-else-in-2-words.html

© 2020 Karen Cortell Reisman, All rights reserved     

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Karen Cortell Reisman, MS, Executive Communication Author & Speaker