Maintaining a Positive Culture In a Tough Economic Climate

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Leadership and Management

Brian Blomgren

July 9, 2008

In today's tough economic times, business owners and employees can very easily panic. Leaders are responsible for creating a positive, productive environment even when times are uncertain. In order to help your company adapt to today's conditions, focus on your internal communication practices.

Be Honest And Direct
When a company is faced with a barrage of negative information, company leaders have a tendency to hold their cards close to the vest until the environment stabilizes. Doing so can result in serious consequences – especially in the loss of trust by your employees and a change in the culture of your organization. The best ally a leader has during tough economic times is a legion of loyal, hard-working employees. This is only achieved through honest communication. If you know layoffs will take place, your best bet is to be as up front about the situation as possible. Reassure those who may be affected that they will be treated fairly. In short, the unknown will create a culture of paralysis. Honesty will build trust, and trust will build decisive action.

Change Your Outlook
Because there is so much negative media influencing our business world, it is necessary to create an outlook for your company that battles the outside world view. Use the current negative outlook to your advantage. Talk in terms of conquering a challenge of epic proportions and inspire others to rise to the occasion. George Washington, leading only a few U.S. troops against a British enemy far better trained, said, "We must never despair; our situation has been compromising before, and it changed for the better; so I trust it will again."

Above all else, have a strong will to win and a clear direction for your company. Even if your vision and plan appear to have little chance of success, your strong belief in your company and your vision will inspire others to follow. Fear is the insidious emotion that undermines a culture. Your courage to stand for what you believe in will smother fear.

Seek Champions Among The Ranks
In a position of authority, leaders can often be viewed with suspicious eyes – whether or not this scrutiny is deserved. Finding others to carry your message throughout the organization can create powerful changes and prevent the infectious spread of bad attitudes. Champions in your company set the tone and lead by example. Even one champion can have a tremendous influence on the entire culture. Enlist your champions to communicate a positive message for you in a challenging situation, and give them the communication tools to achieve the outcome you want.

Creating an honest, positive environment in tough economic times will help employees stay motivated and active. Take responsibility and lead with your positive beliefs. Seek out champions within your staff, and confront bad attitudes immediately. It is essential to address your internal communications practices during times of financial uncertainty.

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