Thank you for joining me for this series titled Stronger Through Adversity. The book by the same name is based on conversations I’ve had with more than 140 global leaders as they navigate through COVID-19.
During my conversations with leaders, many referenced having no roadmap for leading in the pandemic or suggested their previously crafted maps didn’t apply. That prompted me to recall a lesson I learned when I started hiking 14,000-foot mountains in Colorado. A veteran climber told me, when the map doesn’t match the terrain – follow the terrain.
As I spoke with successful leaders, like Hans Vestberg, CEO of Verizon, or Michelle Gass, CEO of Kohl’s, it became clear that they were following rapidly shifting terrain throughout this pandemic. They were extremely attentive to instant shifts in the social, political, business, and health landscape. They assembled listening outposts, task forces, chains of command, and clear team safety and business sustainment objectives.
They shared how they sought and continued to seek reliable, real-time information on all stakeholder perceptions as well as the financial health of the business. They candidly shared the challenges of garnering accurate data given widespread misinformation and conflicting expert and political guidance. They also spoke about the constant cadence of meetings and the rapid tactical shifts they make. Most importantly, they talked about the constant recalibration required to maintain a steady course in unsteadying times.
I won’t get into the stories shared by these leaders, you can find those in the book; however, I will ask how readily you give up preconceived notions or existing plans? Where do you turn for reasonably accurate information amid a sea of distortions? How nimbly are you able to act and course-correct as conditions warrant?
I would love to listen to your journey and how you’ve adjusted to the shifting terrain of the pandemic. Moreover, I welcome the chance to help you lead on the undulating path ahead; especially, as it affects the people you serve.
Please reach out to me here, and we’ll find a time for those conversations.
If you would like to learn more about Stronger Through Adversity and get your special 40% off pre-order offer head to strongerthroughadversity.com. Until next time, may you be Stronger Through Adversity by following the terrain.
Joseph A. Michelli, Ph.D. is a professional speaker and chief experience officer at The Michelli Experience. A New York Times #1 bestselling author, Dr. Michelli and his team consult with some of the world’s best customer experience companies.
Follow on Twitter: @josephmichelli