As the "Great Resignation" sweeps across industries, leaders are left grappling with its impact. Discover five strategies to not only withstand this wave, but also to cultivate a flourishing team amidst these challenging times.
The Great Resignation
As the pandemic recedes, we are collectively entering what psychologists say is the 6th stage of grief: a pursuit of meaning and purpose
- This dynamic creates a unique opportunity for leaders to build cultures in which purpose is clear and team members can find meaning in their contribution
- Culture isn’t fluffy stuff or a “nice to” perk that you’ll get to if you have time. It’s the very linchpin that ties your purpose and strategy together
Psychological Safety
Employees need to build trust and respect for one another, be self-aware and others-aware, and feel like they can actively bring their best work to the team
- At this stage unity is strong, the organization demonstrates a high commitment to development and growth opportunities, and team members feel valued and trusted
Connection
One of our great needs as humans is belonging. When addressing this need, team members want to be together.
- As leaders, we foster this and protect this need of culture by ensuring that we have organizational rhythms that allow for connection and that we create a culture of mutual commitment and accountability.
Tools for the job
Make sure team members have the basic tools they need to do their job in today’s environment
- When our basic needs aren’t met, we fight for survival rather than focusing on achieving the mission
- Ensure staff members have their basic needs met by ensuring they are adequately equipped and trained when they begin
Personal Fulfillment
You can’t force anyone to find personal fulfillment in their work, but you can create an environment that fosters it by attending to the first four needs and thereby setting the stage for this one to be achieved as well.
- When team members are fulfilled, they are fully utilizing their gifts with a team that they love, doing work that is fulfilling.
Organizational Clarity
This stage answers the questions “Who are we?” and “How do we behave in order to achieve our mission?”
- When leaders provide organizational clarity, team members are secure in their role and their place on the team
- Clarity at this stage will be the game-changer in building a culture that is aligned and working effectively to achieve the mission
