When it comes to dealing with a large group or making difficult decisions, it is very easy for people to flinch, and look for an easier way out. Aruna Jayanthi pointed out basic steps and a simple guideline for leaders to ensure not only smooth running, but also a reduction in fear and panic felt by the common people in a time where safety and security are critical for survival.
The very first thing she talked about, and repeatedly emphasized was the importance of communication. This is key, for trust to be maintained and for active engagement from people to follow through with safety as a top priority. People can achieve their goals when they can dare to dream, and once this happens, there is no looking back.
Harsh times, call for harsh measures and only very agile decision making will help people be safe. This skill enables people to move on, and only those firms which make decisions keeping the time crunch in mind will be able to survive this crisis and move on.
Everyone has opinions, and everyone can think, however, a key trait in leaders is their ability to ‘listen and learn’. Grasping new ideas and concepts is an integral part in a successful leader. To be able to understand the perspectives of experts on multifaceted ideologies accentuates existing models and paves the way for growth and development. Having a strong and robust ‘execution model’ is needed, so as to put thoughts into actions.
When asked about how to deal with naysayers and people disagreeing with your perspective, Aruna Jayanthi beautifully put across a rather simple point of making people accountable. Once people have the burden of making something work on their head, they will agree or find another way, either way, it is your gain.
In conclusion, leading from the front, armed with strong communications, quick thinking, being compassionate and striving for perfection enables a person to be a well-rounded leader, which is what extreme times like these call for.