As you may know, on Friday, July 19, a massive global computer outage disrupted the travel industry, causing over 3,000 flight cancellations and more than 11,000 delays. The airlines are still struggling to get passengers to their final destinations. This widespread glitch had significant and lingering impacts, demonstrating the importance of being prepared for unexpected challenges.
While hopefully, your business is never affected by a global computer outage, leaders must deal with unforeseen, unexpected, and challenging issues daily. Effective leadership today requires the ability to pivot and adapt quickly. From technology failures to unpredictable market conditions, sudden acquisitions, or the immediate resignation of a top performer, leaders must navigate and mitigate a sea of uncharted waters regularly.
No one can predict the future accurately, but the ability to regulate emotions during chaotic moments, devise and execute a feasible Plan B, and maintain a positive and forward-moving team is a testament to a leader’s resilience and emotional intelligence. These are the most valuable leadership skills today.
Ensure Your Leadership is Prepared with the ON Point Action Plan
Follow the ON Point Action Plan to ensure your ability to pivot is on point and your Plan B is ready.
7 Ways to Pivot & Prepare a Plan B
Look Ahead – not all issues can be expected but think, prepare & anticipate future events; don’t be caught flat-footed if you can help it
Play “If/Then” – map out contingency plans for certain situations; if “x” happens, then “y” will be the solution or course of action
Take a Breath – managing & regulating emotions & impulses in these unexpected moments is critical to a successful outcome
Model Positivity – people take their lead from their leaders; if you project a calm, composed, confident & positive demeanor, they will follow suit
Shift the Mindset – instead of an “oh no” reaction, shift to “oh yeah;” think of it as an opportunity to grow, learn, develop & improve
Learn the Lessons – a needed pivot or plan B is often when inefficiencies, redundancies or blind spots are illuminated; pay attention
Celebrate Success – getting through a crisis, snafu or shakeup is an opportunity for a team or organize to bond together & to celebrate their efforts
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