More than a setback, the pandemic is like an unexpected scheme by a villain in a drama.
Players know it is POSSIBLE to happen but are Surprised when it did happen? This
exactly was the scene of organizations at the opening scene of covid-19 life drama series
that kicked off last March. And viewers are all watching the “bida” (main players) as to
their counter-moves. The life series has been heart-wrenching episodes.
The true nature of leaders come out in time of crisis – and the workforce now see,
experience and recognize them nowadays. Knowledge networks have several advise
about them. But have one asks the workforce – what is it you assume your ‘bida-boss”
to do first during this time?

In all situations, particularly such as Covid-19, regardless of location, organization size,
language and rank, Communication is critical. This is where the test on leadership’s
capability and values begins.

“Words represent thoughts. The closest one person can get to understanding a person’s
thoughts is to LISTEN to the words that one speaks or writes.” Spoken words are results
or response of what the “boss” heard! Heard but did he Listen? The social ecosystem is
in disarray due to the killer “ miscommunication” which is a product of incorrect listening
skills. Again articles are abound on this topic but my simple advise on listening is “put
yourself in the shoes of the speaker”. Surely, leaders are not All-Knowing too, thus, a
guide to understand another person’s point is ASK questions politely. Understanding and
clarification of the needs and sentiments of workforce leads to an effective and efficient
decision-making. But of course, the leader’s individual resiliency quotient is a necessary
behavioral factor too . We will have a separate blog on this and not go deep into it here.
This blog’s focus is to emphasize the value of effective listening to enable resolutions
that maybe suited to the workforce needs. In case, the corporate situation warrants the
inability to respond to them, therefore a leader’s spoken or written words reflect a
“person’s thought process and behavioral characteristics”. Choose wisely your words
and tone because the listeners will draw an insight on you from your words. Once more,
encourage “questions” on unclear matters. It is a repetitive cycle but what else could be
unique in our new normal?