We are currently still facing unprecedented challenges as we continue to operate through the uncertain times brought about by COVID-19. At times of crises, people turn to their leaders for guidance and support, and as leaders, we must help them build resilience in the workplace to get them through these unprecedented few months. 

The skills, behaviors, and mindsets of leaders will ultimately determine how well their workforces handle and recover from the events of the pandemic. Although things may not return to normal anytime soon, a new normal can be reached through the provision of guidance and support. 

Here are some ways that leaders can help to build resilience in their times through this current crisis. 

Offer additional support but don’t forget to challenge 

Balancing support with challenges is something that leaders already do daily but becomes more critical than ever during uncertain times. During periods of crisis, people will require additional support from HR and their superiors to help them manage their fears and overcome negative emotions that could impact their wellbeing.

At this time, leaders need to offer their teams a higher than usual level of support and remain open and communicative despite work-from-home orders and lockdown measures. Although support is undoubtedly necessary at this time, it is also essential to continue to challenge our teams to keep output high and encourage improvement. 

Practice gratitude and encourage teams to do the same 

The pandemic events may mostly be out of our control, but we are still able to govern our mindsets. The importance of a positive mindset cannot be overlooked during periods of doubt and concern, and as leaders, it is our job to guide our teams to help them make use of this invaluable tool. Practicing gratitude is one of the easiest ways to bring positivity into the mind, focusing on what is good and what we are grateful for rather than what is out of our control.

Gratitude can be used within teams to create cohesion and boost morale, which will positively impact productivity and quality output. As a simple skill that can be taught to individuals by their leaders either on a one-on-one basis or within a team meeting, practicing gratitude should be encouraged daily. 

Create a culture of open communication 

As previously mentioned, support is going to be a critical part of curating resilience within a team environment, and this cannot be achieved without introducing the necessary communications channels. During these times of uncertainty, open communication between all individuals becomes more important than ever. It may be required to put new communicative procedures in place to facilitate and encourage more open communication. If your team is still working remotely, then video chat and instant messaging apps can help team members communicate more efficiently between themselves and to you.

You may also wish to introduce new techniques such as stand-ups to bring everyone onto the same page. 

In conclusion 

Businesses are currently facing unprecedented times, making the support that HR and leaders can provide to their teams more critical than ever. Although most of the events in front of us are out of our control, we can encourage the practice of gratitude and mindfulness to empower our teams to think and operate differently during these challenging times and help them recover from the difficulties they may face. Communicating in person may be challenging, but introducing new communication methods and techniques can help break down barriers and facilitate support. 

About the Author:

Adam McCoy, MBA, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, GPHR, 

Adam has been with Mile High SHRM since spring of 2015, and has been heavily involved in the Emerging Leader program, and has a deep passion for advancing the HR profession in Denver, particularly sharing his Global HR experience. Adam also has great enthusiasm for educational programming, including assisting in the facilitation of our SHRM certification prep classes, Monthly Member Programs, and PDGs, all of which drive value for members of Mile High SHRM and help members maintain their valuable HR certifications.