claudia paghunie

The workforce post-COVID19 pandemic has changed the modern world and we have felt it: Employees have advocated for hybrid work models and won, businesses had to reimagine physical space to accommodate new work-life boundaries, teams had to find new norms for collaborating, and leaders had to flex their strength in communication. To the managerial level individuals and above, we must ask ourselves this: what does it take to be a great leader post-pandemic? 

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We must adapt to survive. Here are 5 leadership essentials that will keep your team motivated:

 

1. Authenticity & Empathy
   Human principles haven’t changed. When you are your truest self and lead with authenticity, you will begin to create a safe environment where people are able to thrive. Trust is built when you are genuine and empathy strengthens that relationship. Authenticity with empathy brings safety, safety the desire for growth, the desire to grow productivity, productivity accomplishment, and accomplishment loyalty. A team with a solid foundation of trust built on authenticity will go a long way! 
    

2. Communication & Compassion
   Spoken or unspoken, communication is happening all the time. Leaders who are proactive in their communication tend to have a more connected team. If you are in a hybrid work model, take the time to connect on topics outside of work to build rapport with your team. "Water cooler conversations" carry more weight than you think. When communicating, remember to have compassion. It is rare that we can understand the weight, burden, or stress another person may carry. Communicating with grace can be firm just as much as it can be gentle. It is even considered necessary after the collective trauma society has gone through during the pandemic.
    

3. Boundaries
   Healthy boundaries in the workplace lead to a more balanced life. Setting these boundaries can look like identifying your priorities, learning to say no, or taking necessary time off. By establishing a human-centric culture of balance, employees are given the verbiage and example to reciprocate. 
    

4. Vision with Humility
   The Millennial and Gen Z generations are fantastic at asking the question: "Why?". Long gone are the days when blind obedience exists. We want to know why and then we will judge your reasoning. Leaders who establish vision answer the "why" question. It sets a future goal and gives purpose to the work being done. When vision is partnered with leadership, appropriate resources, and, of course, humility, you will see growth. Take proactive steps to build confidence amongst your employees.
    

5. Hope & Laughter
   Similar to vision, hope is your silent X-factor. Hope pushes the average worker onto the next milestone. Hope is what inspires one to think beyond their present circumstance. When hope is tied to a healthy work culture, laughter abounds. Don't be shy to crack a joke, insert that extra meme, or be a little playful (appropriately and within context). Times are rough and we could all use more joyful moments.