Berger Leadership Blog

In difficult situations, leaders are looked to to set the example of how to respond, to set the tone of approach. This may seem like a big ask, especially in times of crisis – like we're in now – when we're not sure what tomorrow will hold. But we've been entrusted with this power and it's up to us to respond effectively.

The challenges we're currently facing are unlike any we've seen before. It's OK to feel uncertain. It's OK to be upset. As a leader of a company or organization, however, you mustn't let these adverse feelings be the ones that control you. Now is the time to harness your emotional intelligence and be the strong leader that you are.

To help, world-renowned leadership coach Lolly Daskal has five techniques to address frustrations constructively:

• Learn to pause. Hearing bad news doesn't give you permission to fly off the handle. If your first instinct won't be well received, take a few deep breaths or count to 10 to give yourself a chance to cool down. Once you've had time to process, you'll have a more diplomatic response.
• Practice observation. Work to understand the full picture of a situation that's causing the frustration. Don't let your desire to eliminate it drive a quick solution that only acts as a temporary band-aid.
• Work to always dig deeper. Once you take time to observe, you'll likely identify a bigger contributing problem. Talk with your employees to identify areas of improvement that will truly improve the situation.
• Master the neutrality of a bystander. Leaders' first instinct is likely to jump into action and give orders. However, it's important to give employees space to speak their mind and air grievances – creating a workplace environment in which employees feel safe doing so is critical in times like these. Listen attentively, show empathy, and then work together to find a solution.
• Know how to put out fires. Don't fan the flames. There are times when we all need to vent but know the appropriate time to do so. As a leader, keep a clear mind so you can communicate effectively and keep employees grounded.

It's our duty as presidents/CEOs/executives/team leads to rise above tough situations and keep morale high. We must not lose sight of our mission or lose touch with our values. We must put our leadership skills to work and put our company's – including our employees', members'/customers' and stakeholders' – well-being above all else.

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