I’ve been very fortunate through the Covid pandemic that technology has allowed me to continue our one-on-one leadership coaching work. Not so lucky with our face-to-face programmes, team workshops or keynotes.
I’ve loved the way organisations have pivoted to using technology to support the wellbeing of their people through these tumultuous, tough times as well. All sorts of online programmes on resilience, relaxation, mindfulness, thriving. The list goes on and on. I even produced some videos myself (See our 5-part Leading in Lockdown Video Series) along with delivering online workshops to help support our clients, their families and our leadership community.
There’s no denying the importance of all of this work.
But I truly believe there’s one thing that has to happen, that’s even more important than all of these support mechanisms. And that’s personal contact.
Nothing will take the place of a leader getting on the phone, calling their team members and seeing how they are. Asking “how are you managing?” (Never how are you coping?) And then really, really listening. You may not be ever able to do anything, but just your listening is enough.
I’m a great one for techniques, processes, skills, but at the head of all great leadership is CARE. Real care, genuine compassionate care.
It may feel over the top for you to think this way AND I’d love you to love your people right now. We need this at any time. We really need it now more than ever.
Earlier in my career, I was hired by Jim Sweeney, the Operations Manager for St George Building Society as their Training and Development Manager. It was my first management role. In those days, you got a discount on your home loan (no tax implications) and Jim and his wife Margaret helped Deborah and myself buy our family home in Fairlight.
I was about 5 reporting levels below Jim and naïve.
He cared.
When I look back on the leaders I’ve had over the years, I can remember some of the lessons I learnt from them. However, what’s left an even stronger impression is the kindness, support and genuine interest in me and my development.
There’s no better time to show you care than during Covid.
As you probably know, I think all life and leadership lessons are songs by The Beatles. So…
“All you need is love”
So, get on the blower and make it part of your cadence to check in and see how people are tracking.
What small things can you do to say “You’re important to me” and “I care”?
Until next time…
Find the passion.
Develop the skills.
Make the numbers.
Make a difference.
Paul Mitchell
“APAC’s most respected transformational leadership performance coach”
Paul Mitchell (@Paul_S_Mitchell) is a speaker, author, transformational leadership coach and founder of the human enterprise. Through leadership coaching, leadership development programmes, keynotes and facilitation, Paul works with organisations to build cultures where everybody leads.
Whether you are on your way up or have already summited to the top, I bet you didn’t get there without some solid leadership skills at the foot of the mountain.
That’s why one of our most popular programmes is Basecamp: Leadership Essentials. The leadership skills taught in the programme are truly essential for all up and coming organisational climbers and those that have already started their ascent.
Make certain all your leaders from top to bottom have their essentials in place to help the whole team and your organisation reach the summit.
Basecamp: Leadership Essentials is also now being delivered as Virtual Instructor-Led Training (VILT) with online pre and post workshop activities to promote transference of learnings and skills back into your organisation.
In his #1 Amazon Best Selling book, Your Leadership Diamond, now in its second edition, Paul Mitchell reveals how in a period of just seven weeks, you can take your leadership to a whole new level. He inspires us to see ourselves as diamonds that just need a little polishing to really shine. You’ll discover simple, practical advice, for time-poor leaders who wish to transform the way they lead at work, at home and in their communities.
