The “New Normal” and its Impact on Leadership

Prior to the chaos of COVID-19, our clients would typically say: "This new hire must be based in our headquarters city, 5 days a week”, as a condition for their hiring. 

This requirement has changed overnight. Now, with virtual leadership being the new normal, the knowledge and foresight for how to guide this new way of operating is critical. Since companies have made large investments in work-from-home (“WFH”) infrastructure, a leader who knows how to lead virtually will now be in higher demand. The WFH skill has just altered the classic definition of leadership. 

For the foreseeable future (years perhaps), this will be the new normal, ie., a new way of working. Cultures will be transformed, collaboration tools will continue to be in higher demand, and new metrics for success will emerge. The ability to embrace change, drive innovation, and employ new ways of operating will become core requirements for new leaders – along with their ability to guide others to adapt their ways.

The good news is that, when this period of uncertainty ends, we will have adopted new best practices and we will have newly established comfort zones. The most inspired leaders will find ways that we can grow from this chaos, flex new muscles and find ways for everyone around them to learn and benefit from the new world order, long after this crisis is over. 

What new ways of working, growing, learning are you seeing? Let me know!