Ever have a time when stressors are throwing you or the team curve balls: staff changes shift dynamics, unusual client requests, or unexpected external emergencies? What if you could find opportunities in these circumstances? Imagine a way to capture the momentum of relational waves, be creative in business continuity, and build trust in a difficult conversation. Adaptable leaders and influencers modify to best meet these needs and prepare for new possibilities to the benefit of employees and the company.
It may be tempting to apply a generic solution or try to double down on control. However, remind yourself that each group or situation is made up of individuals. This means a different type of personality, skill set, or motivation is behind each. To increase the ability to connect, inspire, and rise to the occasion it is important to adapt. This is not to say be overly malleable. Instead maintain boundaries by considering the mission and vision. Use company values as a guide.
Five ways to practice adaptability:
· Learn to build on what works well. Reflect on instances of success. What did it take to achieve that positive result? Then share it.
· Balance business necessities with support that fits the situation. Show up with empathy. Be open to what can come of the conversation. It may hold the solution you are looking for.
· Ask for and try out input. Use collaboration to stoke the embers of creativity.
· Change the conversation style depending on who you are talking to. Consider that the other person may take in information best in a different format.
· Be the one that is flexible (within the structure of alignment with the company mission and vision). Lean into being uncomfortable to encourage a better outcome.
Making adaptability the norm may have a significant impact on how we rise to meet business challenges. You can adjust to a situation to increase the likelihood of experiencing greater benefits.