A time for memorable leaders

Via: Investec

In uncertain times, it helps to have strong relationships with people who understand and acknowledge the challenges you face.

Right now, it's about your employees

Annabel Bishop, Investec's chief economist, has referred to the recent unrest and violence as a shock to the South African psyche, compounding the effects of the pandemic.

While South Africans have always been resilient, we can't disregard the possibility that many of us may be anxious, confused and demotivated. If those feelings are evident in your business, you have an opportunity to lead.

A time for memorable leaders

We remember the unusual, the out of the ordinary, that something that goes against the grain and interrupts our thinking just long enough to make room for memory. This human quirk is perhaps not used enough in the realm of business leadership. Yes, employees are somewhat motivated by their need to make a living. But when it comes to making hard decisions or taking brave action - and right now businesses need both - a salary only motivates so far.

More powerful is the notion of team. We don't like letting people down who depend on us, especially when they care for us. That feeling of belonging, central to high performing teams, doesn't come from a culture manifesto. It grows from small, memorable moments between people. It's about connections.

When you combine the worst unrest our democracy has seen with a global pandemic, the opportunity to create those valuable memories with your employees has never been greater. How? By going against the grain.

Revert to human

Some of your employees will be supporting family who've lost jobs, others will be mourning a loved one, and many will be fearing for their own well-being. Shouldering these burdens alone is debilitating. They'll never forget the relief of being able to safely share their troubles with leaders at work. Make that possible.

Trust more

Having no control breeds fear. And recent events have highlighted just how powerless we can be. Give your employees more control over what they do in the work environment and you'll reintroduce an element of control into their lives to ease anxiety and increase productivity. That you trusted them when things were most precarious will deepen their work ethic, too.

Change what you can

Don't be optimistic that change will come - be optimistic that you can bring change. Take one step, any step, to show your employees you are doing something to reduce the poverty and inequality that makes our country shaky. Being part of the solution will not only make them proud, but also set an example for them to become agents of positive change inside your business and in their direct communities.

Be selfish

There are many qualities a leader must have. Among the most important are consistency and resolve. Neither are easy to exude if you're not sleeping, exercising, eating well and spending time with loved ones. Forming powerful connections with your employees will happen when you are your best self, so make time for the things that keep you on an even keel.

Our Integrated Wealthcare approach is based on your personal priorities and aspirations. This process is designed to give you a clear course of action for pursuing your goals that span various time horizons and life stages to empower you to do extraordinary things with your wealth, both now and in the future.

I look forward to talking with you again soon.

Yours in health,

Shane Thom, CFP^® GTP(SA)™
Managing Partner // Key Individual // Integrated Wealthcare Advisor // Personal Portfolio Manager (PPM)

For further information and guidance from the World Health Organisation on current outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), visit this page for daily updates.

For up to date and correct information on the status of COVID-19 in South Africa, start a chat with the official Department of Health WhatsApp support service at 0600 123456 (Just say 'hi' to get started).