There’s a glimmer of light at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic tunnel and now is the time for smart leaders to craft their inspirational messages. The world is about to go back to work, and when we do, we want to be ready. This means above all else, preparing your people through consistent communication for what is next.
Here are 3 tips to crafting messages that will inspire and energize your workforce, post-pandemic:
1. Build Trust and Calm Fears
Build trust and calm fears by acknowledging the pandemic’s affect on your people FIRST, and then your organization. Be sure to craft your message through the eyes of your employees and address their concerns first and foremost. Remember that most have been affected physically, mentally, emotionally and financially. Be upfront, candid and inoculate their concerns with effective phrasing such as:
-
- You might be thinking…
- Many have asked…
- You are likely feeling...
2. Recognize and Communicate
Recognize and communicate that many things will be different when your team returns. In three short months the world has shifted in many ways, and your organization likely has too. Be sure to provide comfort by sharing what will not change and what will remain the same. As an example, your messages might include:
-
- Our dedication to our employees and our commitment to our customers will never waiver...
- Our supply chains and our method of regional meetings and sales calls will be modified...
3. Describe Your Vision
Finally, describe your vision of better and happier days to come. Describe the process of ramping up to opening and provide a conservative timeline to resume operations.
LEADERSHIP GAME CHANGER:
In your current spare time, stop typing and pick up your phone. Make personal phone calls to check in on individual team members. Start with those who are ill, and continue to personally connect with your entire team. Your genuine concern will be remembered long after COVID-19 is a distant memory.
This is your time to shine as a leader, Carpe Diem!
Want to BE MORE EFFECTIVE? Follow us on the journey:
- TWITTER: @DonnellyEffect
- LINKEDIN: Donnelly Effect & Mike Donnelly
- SPARKS BLOG: SUBSCRIBE on the upper right hand side of this blog post =)