Evolving leadership and management styles

Like most things, the pandemic has changed leadership too

The pandemic ushered in an era of uncertainty and changed the way we work and live. The traditional daily 9 to 5 in-office work routine shifted to a remote/hybrid working model. This meant a shift in the way people collaborate, build camaraderie, engage with each other, and operate.

Unlike the pre-pandemic workplace where person-to-person meetings and water cooler talks were common, in the new workplace, collaboration has taken a different form. Leaders and managers are making several adjustments to accommodate the needs of the remote/hybrid environment. Let’s take a look at five changes that leaders are making in the post-pandemic era:

1.   Empowerment

To encourage engagement and comradeship, leaders are empowering and orienting their teams so that they operate more out of purpose and ownership rather than just completing a task or activity. They are balancing a fine line between letting loose and tight control by establishing broad boundaries and guidelines for their teams so both organizational and individual needs are addressed.

2.   Participation

Leaders are adjusting their management style to build a participative work culture where the teams brainstorm both on the ‘WHAT’ and the ‘HOW’ of achieving the common goals set out. Leaders are consciously conducting regular surveys and check-ins to understand the team’s concerns and points of view. These are followed by focused training/learning sessions using online collaboration methods and platforms.

3.   Transparency and openness

Leaders who share and are open about what they know or don’t know with their team are more effective during uncertain times. This creates trust in the leadership and drives engagement.

4.   Continuous learning

The constantly evolving business environment has given rise to a need for continuous learning. Leaders are prioritizing learning and reskilling to create a continuous learning work culture so teams have the ways and means to adapt to change whenever necessary.

5.   Compassion and empathy

The pandemic has affected people in so many different ways and levels and has put the spotlight on mental health issues. Compassion and empathy are more important than ever for managers and leaders and it starts with active listening. Leaders are making the effort to check in on their team, ask about their situations and difficulties, and provide support during difficult situations. Creating an environment of safety and oneness has become exceedingly important.

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