Michael's Comments - December 2021
This time last year I reflected on a year of uncertainty and felt quite sure that 2021 was going to be a more “normal” year. However, 2021 has once again challenged our concept of “normal”. Many have had to adjust, innovate, and adapt and whilst this has brought about great opportunities for some it has also been a particularly challenging time for others. Our thoughts go out to the people of Auckland as we can only imagine the impact and strain that the lengthy lockdowns have had on both their financial and mental wellbeing.
One aspect of business that really comes to the fore in uncertain times like these is leadership. A good leader can influence and guide individuals, teams, and whole organisations to achieve common goals.
Whilst a good leader really needs to step up during challenging times, expressing some vulnerability allows you lead with authenticity and make real meaningful connections with your team. It builds trust, understanding and strengthens teams. Strong leaders are self-aware and lead by example.
What does leadership look like in your business? As a business leader do you practise the four quadrants of leadership?
- Energy – lead by example. This is the level of energy that we bring to the organisation when we walk in the door. Remember that energy is infectious, so positive energy will inspire and motivate others. Make a point of greeting your team in the morning, asking about their weekend and their family. Celebrate success as an organisation, share the good stories, provide positive feedback.
- Focus – clarity of purpose. What should we be focussing our time and energy on? Do we have relevant KPIs and clear expectations? What does a great day’s work look like for us, our team, and our organisation?
- Vision – the end point. This comes from the plan we have for our business. We need to be clear about what we want to achieve as humans and as a business. What would your individual team members like to achieve? What are their aspirations and goals? Do they align with your business goals – are you all heading in the same direction?
- Empowerment – empower your team to be the best that they can be. In my opinion, this is the most important element of leadership. It’s the collective power of a team. Seek feedback, provide training, support, develop and delegate to promote ownership and a sense of achievement.
Re-visiting your leadership skills and implementing the four quadrants of leadership may help you to achieve a better culture, better business outcomes and engage your team to be effective.
You might think the phase “there’s no I in team” is over-used but it still rings true. As a leader, inspire your team to be better than they ever thought they could be – as individuals and as a whole team. This will ultimately bring more success to you and your business.
Remember that good leadership is not about getting it right all the time, and this is especially so in our current uncertain environment.
Perhaps during the Christmas holiday period, you will have some time to reflect on your leadership, celebrate your wins, focus on what you can control and make a plan for 2022.
We wish you and your families a safe, relaxing, and happy Christmas holidays. We thank you for your support during the past year and we look forward to working alongside you next year.
Merry Christmas and best wishes from Michael, Campbell, Brendan and the team at PKF Carr & Stanton