New Leadership Skills in Times of Change and Disruption

Our world has changed, and the pace of change isn’t slowing down. In fact, “this continuous next” as I’m calling it, brings new opportunities and challenges daily. Community priorities, the business environment, public expectation and socio-political dynamics continue to shift. This means how we lead our chambers and our communities must adjust to meet those changing needs. Our research on the three pillars necessary for the future of our industry shares more.

We’ve connected with innovators across the chamber industry as well as other thought leaders to compile the top skills we need during times of change. Whether you’re running your chamber, or running its front desk, having competency in these skills supports every aspect of our work.   

New Communication Styles

Likely the most impactful of all leadership skills, communication needs to be approached in a new way. In many instances, we need to listen before we speak, seeking to not only hear but also understand other viewpoints. Whether it’s explaining new COVID-19 services or discussing community equity dynamics, it requires us to sometimes leverage radical transparency in our communications. Avoiding difficult topics fails to work towards solutions. You also can’t overcommunicate during change management, so get creative on how you repeat core messages, call on respected and likable spokespeople, leverage multiple communication channels and ensure there’s space for two-way dialogue.  

Empathic & Authentic Leadership

Sometimes things aren’t OK, and as leaders we must get comfortable saying that. We need to pay attention to who is struggling, and share when it’s us. Yes, we can be a pillar of strength and hope for our teams and members, but we also have to show that we’re human. Keeping up a façade of perfection can make others feel that the challenges they face are flaws and shortcomings. Change is hard, and often it’s hardest on our teams. Whether it’s staff struggling with remote work, or asking questions before assuming the worst about performance, empathy makes a difference. We work harder when we feel understood.  In fact, there’s science that suggests empathy improves your overall leadership, performance and impact.

Track Record of Moving the Needle on Economic Mobility and Opportunity

There’s plenty of research showing that economic opportunity is good for business, that the time for action is now, and there’s ample insight on how to better elevate your economic opportunity work. Showcasing when and how you’ve had impact in this area is key. Stakeholders ranging from your board of directors to community stakeholders to potential funders and partners can all benefit from seeing that you bring action and impact, not just words. Quantifying your work makes the outcomes tangible. 

Passion for the Mission at Your Core

People are inspired to join causes when they’re swept up in something bigger than themselves. Simon Sinek’s best-selling book, Start with Why is a great resource for making sure we’re starting at the right point and inspiring others to join us. In times of change clear focus on, and passion for, your mission sparks both interest and action. We know partnerships are more important than ever, and you’re more likely to gain new collaborators when your passion for the mission shines through. 

If you missed our webinar on chamber CEO careers, you can review the recording to hear more skills needed in our new world order from chamber colleagues as well as a leading national executive search professional.

What skills do you think are critical for chamber and community leaders? Have you found recent leadership success? I’d love to hear from you.

All my best,
Sheree Anne

Direct: 703.998.3540
Email: [email protected]