Being a Leader When You Don't Feel Capable

By Tammy Birklid, Principle of Merit Construction

Being a leader is challenging on a good day.  Knowing your team’s strengths, bridging any gaps and ensuring every member gets the support they need is not simple.  When things outside our control stir the pot, it gets even more difficult. 

Challenges can steal attention from our vision.   

As leaders we are problem solving instead of chasing excellence.  Our team members are struggling to focus on their work with uncertainty and concern pulling at them. 

As the leader of an organization, it’s our job to keep morale high, maintain employee focus and keep the company goals and productivity in the forefront.  How do we, as leaders rise above the stress of a challenge and positively lead through it? 

Don’t let the vision get lost in the crisis.  

In troubling times it is easy to allow our minds to wander.  The company goals can get lost in the blur of stress and worry.  As a leader we must consistently share vision with our team members, reminding them of what matters most and encouraging them to re-focus and strive for excellence. 

Do the right thing, every time.  

Making decisions in the middle of a crisis isn’t easy. Fear or uncertainty can impact your discernment.  You might be tempted to take the easy way out because you can get through an issue faster or with less impact.  Unfortunately, what seems like savings in time or stress may actually be much harder on the company and on you.  Sticking to what is right, every time will always bring the best outcome and you will maintain respect. 

Communicate, talk, listen, then communicate some more. 

Be available to your team, your clients and your consultants.  Keeping others informed and staying in the communication loop yourself is key to successfully navigating difficult times.  Your team members will likely have a lot of questions during challenges and you will want them to turn to you for collaboration and affirmation of their decisions.  Keeping the lines of communication open is key. 

Sweat the small stuff.  

If you see trouble brewing, do what you can to tackle it early. Don’t put it off hoping that it goes away or resolves itself.  Small things can eventually become large problems if they’re ignored. While you might be fighting a much larger fire, give the sparks the respect they deserve and get ahead of them early or they may become the next big flames. 

Be transparent. 

In a crisis people are looking to leaders to see what to do or how to act. Be candid about your feelings and your plan for the crisis.  Your team will want to know what you need from them and what they can expect in the days ahead. If you take the approach of keeping them in the dark, you could lose their trust.  Sharing the challenges and seeking feedback shows they are a real part of your team and that you value them. 

Keep growing.  

Becoming a better leader is absolutely an ongoing process.  Make a habit of discussing lessons learned, even when the mistake was yours.  Have the courage to ask your team how you can improve.  Then strive to invest in your growth through education and seeking mentors who can encourage and sustain you. 

Leadership brings great responsibility, especially during difficult times, but it is an honor when accepted and owned.  Keep chasing excellence, even in the challenges!