How to Keep Your Team Focused and Productive During Uncertain Times

Keeping your team focused and productive isn’t always easy, especially with ongoing global changes and challenges. Uncertainty is part of today’s working world, and while you can’t control external circumstances, your role as a leader is to guide your team through it all with stability and confidence.

Here’s how to keep your team united and productive when facing uncertainty.

1. Provide Clear and Transparent Information

During times of uncertainty, your team will look to you for information. It’s your job to communicate openly, even when the news isn’t ideal, and even if you’re not fully sure of the situation yourself. The rumour mill will generate far worse scenarios if you don’t share what you know. Be honest with your team and keep them updated on what’s happening. Transparency will help build trust and ease anxiety.

2. Offer Reassurance

While sharing difficult news might seem counterintuitive, it’s essential to also provide reassurance. You need to be the steady force, showing that despite the challenges ahead, you’re optimistic and ready to support your team. Ask them how you can help them stay focused and productive, and encourage open discussions about their worries and concerns. Acknowledging their feelings rather than ignoring them will create a healthier work environment.

3. Be Present

One of the worst things a leader can do in times of uncertainty is to become absent. Whether it’s getting buried in paperwork or spending too much time away in meetings, your absence can make your team feel lost. Make sure to be visible, engaged, and available to your team, showing them through your actions that it’s still business as usual - at least for now.

4. Provide Direction

Uncertainty can lead to confusion and a lack of motivation. Employees may feel unsure of their roles, or whether their jobs are secure, which can impact productivity. It’s your job to keep everyone focused with clear direction, tasks, and deadlines. Set expectations and ensure the team continues moving forward. Keeping them focused on their work will provide a sense of normality.

5. Keep Hope for the Future

Even when the future is uncertain, as a leader, you must keep talking about it. Discuss upcoming targets, team goals, and ongoing projects as if everything is moving forward as usual. This will help maintain a sense of purpose and motivation within the team. Additionally, reassure individuals about their future, both within the company and in their broader career. Acknowledge their talents and opportunities for growth, helping them feel valued, even in difficult times.

6. Stay Calm Under Pressure

Your ability to remain calm and composed during times of stress will set the tone for your team. Ensure you’re managing your own stress levels and maintaining your well-being, as this will directly impact how effectively you can support your team. Seek guidance from your own leadership, and make sure you’re receiving the necessary support to lead with confidence.

Many thanks,

The Excel Team

P.S. If you would like to discuss any of your other learning & development challenges, book in your discovery call.

About Excel Communications

Excel Communications is a learning and development consultancy based near London in the U.K. For more than 30 years; we have been collaborating with clients across the globe.  

Partnering with Excel empowers you to evolve your people and business by fuelling a love for learning.   

We work with you to create unforgettably, customised learning experiences to achieve your vision of success and growth, with tangible results.   

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