b'WCA EDUCATIONLEADING THROUGH UNCERTAIN TIMESFive strategies to help leaders navigate through stressful situationsBy Wendy Hofford, Leadership Trainer, Speaker & ConsultantLeading and managing employees has its challenges. This is especially true during periods of uncertainty, stress for the future and changing dynamics in the construction industry.Levels of stress and anxiety show up differently for everyone. One of the biggest challenges for managers and supervisors is knowing how to approach employees who are experiencing emotional turmoil with compassion and confidence. Lead and support your staff through uncertainty with these five strategies:INVESTING IN GOLD 1. Be compassionate and understanding 4. Dont react, respondWhen people are feeling scared,To effectively manage and anxious or stressed, the emotionslead through change and they are feeling are real to them.uncertainty, a leader must Connecting with them throughbe mindful of their actions. compassion and authenticity goes aTake measures to stay calm long way to building trust. Leaningand carefully consider how to into your own feelings is importantrespond. Leading by example as well. It is okay to show vulnerability and to admit thatis one step you can take to you are also affected. This is not a sign of weakness; it is ahelp build confidence and sign that you are a leader who understands and is workingtrust with your employees.through it.Use techniques to 5. Communicate honestly, confidently 2. help flip the switch and consistently To help your employees Uncertainty, stress and anxietynavigate through cause stress hormones to beuncertain times, ensure released in the body, the sideyou are communicating effects of which include emotionaland connecting with and irrational thinking. Suggest techniques to flip thethem consistently. The switch from emotional to rational thinking. consistency will help Recommend taking deep, slow breaths, focusing onyour team feel valued and provide a source of breathing in for five to 10 seconds, holding for five tostability when they need 10 seconds and then releasing slowly. it. Communicate honestly Focus on something tangible, such as counting and with transparency, be direct (dont sugar coat) and backward from 10 to one or doing a math equation tooffer hope. Stay positive, optimistic and set your sights move thinking from emotional to rational. on working towards successful outcomes.3. Know the facts and take control Uncertain and stressful times are the true test of leadership. Leaders who step up and thrive in difficult situations will make a positive impact by growing As a leader, you might not have allthemselves and those they lead!the answers, but you can be well-informed. Make sure the information you gain is from credible sources and not hearsay or from social media. The more you know, the more you can control the message, providing confidence in your leadership. When employees know their leader is working hard to understand the situation and share the facts, they will be more inclined to feel that things are under control.16 BUILD MANITOBAwinnipegconstruction.ca'