Conversations for Uncertain Times
During this remarkable time in history, perhaps we need to change the phrase “candid conversations” to “Covid conversations”?
Regardless, during this unprecedented time of uncertainty, anxiety and change, you absolutely need to be having candid Covid conversations now more than ever. Your team needs to communicate with each other, now more than ever.
An extra investment in communication is needed to help ensure people feel a sense of security, reassurance, and belonging. Communication will help you maintain trust and help everyone navigate these turbulent times. Here are some questions and conversations frameworks that can help you and your team connect and communicate with each other effectively.
1. Use the Wheel of Change and work through these four questions individually, with your family, and with your team:
What is the #1 thing during this time of uncertainty that we need to KEEP doing?
What is the #1 thing we need to STOP doing?
What is the #1 thing we need to START doing or create?
What is the #1 thing we need to learn to LIVE with?
2. Ask this simple question, and then stop talking: “What can I do to support you right now?”
3. Ask every team members these two questions: “What have you tried that isn’t working for you that we might all learn from?” and “what have you tried that IS working well for you?”
4. Ask these questions of every team member: “Is there anything I should START doing or anything I should STOP doing that would help make this situation easier for you?”
Regardless of the questions you ask, we all need to check in on one another on a regular basis.
We all need to lead with our hearts and our shared humanity.
And we all need to be extra patient and kind with one another. Starting with ourselves.
Michael Kerr 2020.
Michael Kerr is a Canadian Hall of Fame Speaker, highly in-demand international keynote speaker, and the creator of the Culture Leadership Online Academy. Michael is also the author of 8 books, including: The Humor Advantage: Why Some Businesses Are Laughing All the Way to the Bank; Hire, Inspire, and Fuel Their Fire; and The Jerk-Free Workplace: How You Can Take the Lead to Create a Happier, More Inspiring Workplace. www.MikeKerr.com