03 Mar Leading through Uncertain Times

We are living in highly competitive, volatile and uncertain times. Once there was certainty and predictability- now what is certain is that change is inevitable.

So as a leader how do to self-manage and lead others through this unpredictability?

Unchartered territory requires courage, conviction, exploration and openness to new approaches. It is not for the faint hearted…it is however for those that thrive on challenge, have a growth mindset, and are prepared to partner and consider alternatives and not be duty bound to operationally driven predictability.

Bias towards efficiencies and being risk adverse when combined with intolerance to uncertainty become default behaviours that don’t address potential opportunities for breakthrough and future sustainability. The question becomes, how can you deliver new and relevant value to your customer base that will put you ahead of the competition and differentiate you within the marketplace?

And so leadership is critical- leaders who continue to explore probable markets and who continue invest in relevance; ensure that the enterprise will have a distinct strategic advantage.

This takes confidence, conviction, insightfulness and influence to engage the decision makers and those that will develop and execute the product or service.

You can have the most innovative and brilliant approach; however unless you are able to communicate and engage others around the opportunity the status quo will remain and the opportunity lost.

Interestingly to gain certainty- uncertainty must be embraced. You can’t wait for certainty or clarity- instinctive or intuitive thinking needs to be activated to leap into action and towards an outcome-and this takes courage.

To build conviction- you need to embrace doubt. The best leaders have an open mind set and enter the arena with curiosity, surrounding themselves with those that are the experts and through asking the questions that they do not have answers for, explore possibilities and different approaches.

Pioneering leaders are forever exploring new ground. They are not happy to remain stagnant or irrelevant. They have an entrepreneurial mindset, willing to step into unknown territory and unlock new pathways and approaches.

Adaptiveness, agility and effective communication are critical future proof skills for leadership effectiveness.

Ready to take the steps you need to become an exceptional leader? Get in touch with Karen Conaghan today on 0402 852 179 or email karen@karenconaghan.com.au