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The changes to the business landscape and the ushering in of the New Normal and hence, the New World of Work, present a whole host of opportunities for organisations to develop a culture of innovation and inclusion whereby all employees are engaged. This new window of opportunity that has opened up on the world of work can only be maximised to full potential if leaders are equipped with the necessary skills.
Recent global research indicators point towards the fact that the top three leadership traits that will get us through this post-pandemic New Normal are:
- Adapting to change
- Innovation
- Collaboration
Adapting to Change
According to the recent Deloitte European Workforce Survey, 40% of employees experienced difficulties in adapting to changes in the workplace brought on by the pandemic.
“Change is the only constant in life. One’s ability to adapt to those changes will determine your success in life.”
Benjamin Franklin
But, while change may be intimidating, in truth, it is an inevitable part of life. In order to survive, organisations must either adapt to change or run the risk of going out of business. While the ability to adapt to change is critical in the New World of Work, dealing with change is not a skill that everyone is comfortable with. Since everyone reacts differently to change, many people find that when change is not managed effectively it can trigger a wide range of emotional responses, from minor discomfort to intense fear or panic.
Strategies for adapting to change
- Accept that change has happened
- Remain positive
- Seek a fresh perspective
- Focus on those things you can control as opposed to what is out of your control
- Put new goals in place
- Maintain connection with co-workers and direct reports
Innovation
Innovative leadership involves the use of innovation and creativity when managing people and projects. Leaders who are innovative motivate people by using novel and different approaches and often challenge the status quo. In times of uncertainty, such as the recent pandemic, the ability to innovate is critical to business survival. Peter Drucker is noted to have coined the phrase: “innovate or die”. This holds true in light of the current business climate in that if you don’t stay ahead of the pace of change you will go out of business.
Collaboration
Collaborative leadership is a management function whereby everyone is involved in decision making. Collaborative leadership is the opposite to the traditional top-down hierarchical style of leadership that no longer fits in with today’s purpose-driven workplace.
The New Normal requires collaboration and inclusion at every level, which, in turn, requires a new model of leadership. Remote and hybrid work are now the norm and online collaboration tools have bridged the gap between leaders, employees, teams and functions. With collaborative leadership everyone has a role in creating impact and all employees understand the part they play within the larger context which enables them to feel that the work they do is significant and meaningful. When people feel valued and included they are more likely to be more engaged and motivated to perform at their best.