Lessons Learned from Navigating Crises at Boardsi
As the CEO of Boardsi, I have seen firsthand the impact that crises can have on a team and company. From industry disruption to unexpected leadership changes, we have faced our fair share of challenges over the years. But with each crisis, we have emerged stronger and more resilient than before.
In this article, I’ll talk about what I’ve learned and give advice to other leaders who are facing problems like mine. From understanding the nature of the crisis to making a plan of action, communicating well, setting up strong management, showing kindness and compassion, and being flexible, I will give a complete guide to getting through crisis situations and coming out stronger on the other side.
Understand the Crisis
The first step in managing a crisis is to understand its nature and scope. Whether it’s a sudden event or a slow-burning issue, it’s important to gather as much information as possible and assess the potential impact on your team and company. This requires a clear-headed approach and the ability to stay calm in the face of uncertainty.
Make a Plan
Once you have a clear understanding of the crisis, it’s important to create a plan of action. This involves identifying priorities, allocating resources, and setting realistic goals. It’s important to be flexible and adaptable in your approach, as plans may need to change as the situation evolves.
At Boardsi, we developed a new business strategy that focused on innovation and collaboration. We put money into new technologies and partnerships, and we gave our team the freedom to take responsibility for their work and help the company grow.
Communicate Effectively
Effective communication is key during a crisis. It’s important to keep your team up to date on what’s going on and give them regular updates. Be transparent and honest in your communication, and encourage your team to ask questions and share their concerns.
At Boardsi, we held regular meetings with our team to provide updates on our new business strategy and answer any questions they had. We also communicated with our clients and partners, keeping them informed of any changes in our operations.
Establish Strong Management
Strong management is crucial during a crisis. This involves delegating responsibilities, setting clear expectations, and holding people accountable for their actions. It’s important to empower your team to make decisions and take ownership of their work.
At Boardsi, we established a culture of accountability and ownership. We encouraged our team to take risks and try new things, and we recognized and rewarded their successes.
Show Kindness and Compassion
During a crisis, it’s important to show kindness and compassion to your team. This means knowing that they may be dealing with their own problems and being kind and understanding when you talk to them.
At Boardsi, we made sure to check in with our team regularly and offer support where needed. We also provided additional resources, such as counseling services, to help them deal with the emotional impact of the crisis.
Be Adaptable
In a crisis, plans can change rapidly and frequently. It’s important to be adaptable and flexible in your approach. This means being open to new ideas, considering alternative solutions, and being willing to make changes to your plan as necessary. Encourage your team to also be adaptable and remain open to new ways of working.
At Boardsi, we embrace a culture of innovation and adaptability. We encouraged our team to think outside the box and try new approaches, and we were willing to pivot our business strategy as needed to stay ahead of the competition.
To lead through a crisis, you need to think strategically, communicate well, be a good manager, and care about your team. By following the strategies and lessons learned at Boardsi, you can navigate through crisis situations and emerge stronger on the other side.
It’s important to remember that crises can also present opportunities for growth and innovation. By keeping an open mind and being willing to change, you can turn a crisis into an opportunity for positive change and progress.
As a leader, it’s your responsibility to guide your team and company through the challenges of a crisis. You can come out of a crisis stronger and more resilient if you understand what caused it, make a plan, communicate well, set up strong management, show kindness and compassion, and are flexible.
In the words of author and leadership expert John C. Maxwell, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” By following these strategies for leading through crises, you can be the kind of leader your team and company need during challenging times.
