Lessons in Leadership (pandemic edition)

I recently completed two years with a Hawaii-based IT firm, leading a team of consultants. The pandemic prevented me from having regular in person interaction with the team and our clients, but this experience helped me to expand my understanding of effective leadership.

Here are a few lessons learned:

• Everyone brings a unique set of skills and experience to the team. As a leader, it is important to acknowledge each team member’s unique value and finds ways to apply this value to the needs of the client.

• Asking questions is often the most effective leadership tool. In my case, I did not have the technical development skills of my team members, but I was able to help the team problem solve by asking the right questions at the right time.

• Team member performance issues are best managed in an open and honest manner while shielding the client from any service disruptions. As difficult as it may be to let a team member go, if approached with respect and care, they will often come to the same conclusion as you.

• Leading virtually requires you to be respectful of your team members work/home situation and build trusting relationships by showing genuine interest and care about their overall wellbeing.