This week, we're exploring how leaders can navigate unexpected disruptions and rapid change, drawing from The Prepared Leader by Erica H. James and Lynn Perry Wooten.
The Big Question: How can leaders stay grounded and prepared when change hits fast?
The 9 Skills of Crisis Management
Phase 1: Detection
- Sense-making - Scan for early warning signs
- Perspective-taking - Gather diverse viewpoints
Phase 2: Preparation & Prevention
- Influence - Build trust now, not during crisis
- Organizational agility - Give people autonomy
- Creativity - Reframe problems as opportunities
Phase 3: Damage Containment
- Effective communication - Stay calm, be transparent
- Risk-taking - Make decisions without complete certainty
Phase 4: Recovery
- Resilience - Support autonomy and confidence
- Learning & reflection - Run retrospectives
Key Takeaway
Hope is an action word. Build these skills before crisis hits. If you micromanage, you're not building agility. Recovery isn't optional—make space for it.
Resources: The Prepared Leader by Erica H. James & Lynn Perry Wooten | Gravitas by Lisa Sun
Resources:
- Navigating a big transition? Check out our Pivot Plan: 8 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Your Next Big Move.
- Think coaching might be right for you? Schedule a free consultation to explore how we can help you step into your next level of leadership.
- Interested in going deeper in your own leadership and building your network? Join the waitlist for The CoCreate Work Leadership Book Club to explore the themes from this episode in community—through powerful reads, reflection prompts, and live conversations.
- Our last session of the Culture Crash Course just ended, but if you're interested in a Culture Crash Course for your organization or team, please contact us at support@cocreatework.com.
- Interested in leadership development for your team? Our Workshops are a great wait to develop your team's skills and connection.
- At CoCreate Work, we believe in asking great questions. Click here to receive our guide to 40 Powerful Questions to accelerate your growth.
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