In difficult times, such as the current economic crisis, we face additional challenges and are likely to have even fewer resources to deal with these challenges. Managing an already complex and demanding work environment is a challenge in and by itself, and now the challenge just got bigger. So how do we manage through this? There is no easy solution, but here are some ideas to consider:
1. We get informed but not overly-informed nor "obsessed" with the news about the crisis. Maybe we even limit the amount of news and conversations about the news to a healthy level based on our situation and needs
2. Instead of getting too caught up in the crisis as a whole, we try to identify the specific impact on our current work environment (our company, our team, our products and services, our customers and partners), and see what steps, even small steps, can be taken "now" to minimize this impact and/or better manage through it.
3. To minimize the impact and manage through it, we may need to adapt, reframe, or even redefine our strategy, our products and services, our packaging and pricing, and our distribution channels. This is likely to involve engaging and collaborating with our audiences to better understand how their needs have changed and what their pressing challenges are now. Then we formulate solutions that can better address these needs and challenges.
4. To support this effort, we turn hallway conversations from being re-iterations of the news, and recycling of the same stories, into creative and problem solving conversations.
5. To support this effort further, we help each other be more efficient and more productive, collaborate and share information more effectively, minimize interruptions, work more strategically and focus on what is important. Not to mention, we incorporate a good amount of team building and play activities to keep us energized, refreshed, and ready to tackle the challenges.
Shifting our focus from the crisis itself to what we can do about it can go a long way in making us feel better, and in better managing its impact. Happy crisis management!
Note: Learn more about the Economic Stimulus Package by People-OnTheGo which makes it possible to bring the benefits to your team today without impacting your current budget






