Patti Johnson, the founder of PeopleResults, member of the Pariveda Solutions Board of Directors, author of Make Waves, and podcast host, emphasizes the importance of adapting to change in leadership. In times of uncertainty, leaders who aim to have all the right answers may struggle as significant changes occur. The behaviors that led them to success in the past may no longer be effective. It is crucial to embrace the fact that transformational change requires a different approach, as detailed long-term planning and consistency may not always be feasible.
To make wise decisions during periods of ambiguity, leaders should focus on key questions to guide their decision-making process. One important question is to identify what information is needed to better understand the new situation. Leaders should recognize that they may not possess all the knowledge required and should seek to learn from others who can provide valuable insights. For example, a client expanding globally needed to increase their leadership team’s global knowledge gap rapidly to ensure success in new markets.
Listening and learning from experts, both internal and external, is essential for leaders navigating change. By upgrading their listening skills, leaders can gather new insights and information that will help them make informed decisions. Additionally, leaders should be strategic about the decisions they make, focusing on the short term and being open to adapting as they learn more. Adopting an agile mindset allows leaders to make decisions based on the current situation while remaining prepared for future changes.
Exploring all available options, even those that initially seem unworkable, is a powerful tool for making decisions. By considering a wide range of choices, leaders can identify the best option that aligns with their objectives. It is also important to assess the reversibility of decisions, as some choices may be more difficult to change later on. Involving a coalition of team members in decision-making during times of change is crucial for effective leadership, as it prevents decisions from being made in isolation and fosters a sense of shared responsibility.
Ultimately, it is important for leaders to take action based on the information gathered, decisions made, and options considered. Making decisions is an ongoing process that requires adaptability and a willingness to adjust as new information becomes available. By involving team members in the decision-making process, leaders can create a sense of ownership and collaboration that is essential for navigating change successfully. Adapting to change and staying open to new information is key to effective leadership in times of uncertainty.
