The nature of leadership lends itself to change. You’re constantly innovating, looking for new ways to do old things, and what new idea will change the world.
You’re immersed in change.
This doesn’t mean you’re okay with change. Many leaders struggle with overcoming change and uncertainty. Yet that’s what keeps you there as a leader: The ability to lead through change and uncertainty.
Photo by Michelle Tresemer on Unsplash
What do you do when you’re struggling to navigate change and you’re the leader? It’s a question you need to ask yourself. It’s also a situation you have to prepare yourself for.
Let’s get you prepared for change and uncertainty. Let’s help you understand what you can do to navigate the changes you will face.
4 Strategies For Navigating Change And Uncertainty As A Leader
Never fear; you can always improve your capacity to navigate change. All it takes is a little work on your part. Study the strategies below, and the uncertainty you face as a leader will be easier to get through.
1. Expect change and uncertainty to come:
It’s hard to deal with change when you’re not expecting it. We do this all the time. We think our plans are going to go according to plan. Or we don’t anticipate an issue arising.
There’s always something that doesn’t go right.
Expect change and uncertainty to come. Prepare for the audibles you’re going to have to call.
When you expect these things, you can deal with them when they come.
2. See the good in change:
Change isn’t always bad. In fact, I believe change is often good. We miss the good because we’re so focused on what we were expecting or wanted.
Embrace change and uncertainty when they come. Invite them in like you would an old friend.
Look at change. Look at the uncertainty. What can they provide you?
Often, change is good. You’re able to pivot to something that benefits you and the organization. Don’t miss out on the good in change.
3. Communicate through the change:
Leaders fail because they leave their people in the dark. They believe if only they have the information about looming changes, those they lead won’t freak out.
It’s the opposite. When people don’t have access to information, are kept in the dark, and are expected to easily transition when change comes, everything goes poorly.
Instead of keeping change close to the chest, talk to your team. Let them know that change is coming. Help them understand why they will experience change and why change is good.
Before you know it, your team will be on board for change. And that means your team can crush change before it crushes them.
4. Align yourself and your team:
Getting through change isn’t easy. It’s even worse when you’re not aligned personally and with your team.
You have to get yourself into a good place during change. You can’t fear change. You have to be ready for it.
You also have to help align your team. Get your team prepared. Help them understand their place in the organization during change. Help them to see how the change will impact them.
When you’re aligned and your team is aligned, you can power through the most difficult times of change. However, if you fail to get alignment, you’re going to struggle to get things done.
You Can Navigate Change
Change is scary, even though we all face change on a regular basis. I want to leave you with an encouragement. You can get through change. You can navigate the murky waters of uncertainty, fear, and anxiety.
Use the techniques above to help you navigate change and uncertainty. Soon, you’ll be smiling at the next opportunity to face change. You’ll laugh and go, “I’ve got this.”
