Are you experiencing any unforeseen events? And above all, do you have tools to manage the unexpected?
Let’s take the following example for the future: “How can the leader of a business meeting with a well-organized agenda remain flexible?” Suppose that during this meeting, a member proposes an unexpected idea that causes half of the members to discuss passionately. How should the leader react?
Option A : It authoritatively brings all members back to the agenda.
Option B : He lets it happen and loses control of the match.
Option C: It remains open and flexible.
What would be the consequences of each of these options? Here are some tools to manage the unexpected.
Here are some tools to manage the unexpected.
First, acting in an authoritarian manner in this context risks creating general unease, at least in half of the group.
Then, letting it happen will not make it an effective meeting and could also generate frustration.
Finally, the last option begs the question, “How can they still control and still be flexible?”
I would call it adapting. That is, adapt your leadership style to the reality you are living in right now. So, should you decide in an authoritarian way or should you let people tell you how they would do it? It’s a fact, being a manager is often about trying to find the balance between these two extremes… between the micro and the macro. But also, between deciding on your own or involving the team. There is no right answer, I believe there is no perfect management style. On the other hand, I believe in balance and adaptation. A leader who is present, becomes flexible and can adapt.
TIP #1 Adapt your leadership style to the situation.
For example, if the building is on fire, go there in an authoritarian way. In another case, if you’re in a brainstorming meeting, go in collaborator mode instead. Therefore, practice adapting your leadership style to different situations.
Certainly, we all have a predominant style. Also, we have to train in what is less natural for us.
Finally, being present and listening will guide you and help you do so.
To go further: If you want to understand the impacts of your leadership style and define the impact you want to have, take the Manage and Lead online training.
TIP #2 Build with others to deal with the unexpected
First, be part of the team, work towards a common goal. Also, as a leader, forget about your personal agenda and share your vision. In other words, make your destination the common goal. You will have better results on several levels. In the event that you manage alone, you will remain alone. Whereas if you are generous and share, we will follow you. Also, treat people like numbers, you will be one for them too. If not, treat people with respect, they will respect you. Is your agenda ambitious and you work with them? You will succeed!
Then, if you’re not a manager, but have a difficult partner, colleague, or boss, don’t take things personally. Stay positive and professional. For good reason, no one can resist a positive attitude, even the most recalcitrant will end up joining you. Be patient!
Then, when you can, choose people who share your values and attitude, otherwise make it a point not to let yourself be influenced, but rather to contaminate them!
TIP #3 As a leader, set rules to deal with the unexpected!
Finally, set rules in your team. You will be in control while being flexible, because during the discussions you will all have the same rules and will be able to recall them as needed.
Some examples:
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- A negative comment must be accompanied by three solutions/proposals.
- Treat others the way you think they want to be treated! (Unlike how you would want to be treated.)
- No rumour is tolerated, dare to go and validate!
