Business leadership is an essential factor in the success of a company; However, when faced with crises, that is when a leader’s skill in keeping morale high and continuing with the mission is truly tested. In this sense, coaching is an excellent support tool to stimulate the required skills.
The pandemic has revealed the importance of having strong leaders in companies, since the measures to contain it literally stopped the global production system and has led to a recession with massive layoffs and a redefinition of the consumption patterns of the population.
Next, I present some key aspects that can be developed through coaching for difficult times in companies.
1.- Creativity: to generate ideas “outside the box”, which allow finding solutions and the courage to implement them.
2.- Resilience: to avoid crying over the rubble and better dedicate yourself to rebuilding and looking to the future.
3.- Long-term vision: in times of crisis, it is easy to focus only on survival. However, it is essential not to lose sight of the future objective and to focus on the mission of the company.
4.- Clear and effective communication, keeping the staff well informed and motivated, especially with transparent expectations about what happens in their environment. It is advisable to monitor concerns and doubts to provide coherent responses.
5.- They must be able to re-evaluate their own strategies and change them if necessary to ensure that they are making the best decisions.
6.- Be aware of the difficulties of employees and support them to the extent of the company’s possibilities. This gesture generates loyalty and commitment.
7.- A leader must be a good negotiator, since in times of crisis, it is common to make difficult decisions and seek solutions in which all parties involved obtain something positive. In addition, it is essential to know how to listen and consider the opinions of others before resolving.
8.- Empathy and compassion are also important qualities. Put yourself in the shoes of your employees, customers and suppliers to understand their needs and challenges, and act accordingly.
