Heading for New Normal: HR leadership tips from 5 CEOs

In the wake of 2020’s coronavirus pandemic and economic, social, and political unrest, we’ve packed our bags, gassed up the car, and initially set out for “Back to Normal” as our destination. We’re trusting Waze app to guide us, but soon realize the route is often under construction, with multiple detours, dead ends, misdirections, and warnings of trouble ahead. When Back to Normal begins to come into view, we realize it can’t be our ultimate destination. So, we set “New Normal” as our goal. As we consider what we’re likely to find there, Back to Normal begins to resemble a pioneer village.

The July-August 2020 edition of Harvard Business Review reported the results of a roundtable discussion with five CEOs titled, “What Is the Next Normal Going to Look Like?” Here are some key points particularly relevant to HR managers.

Matters of leadership

Speak with candor and bounded optimism about the future. Communicate in a calm, realistic, fact-based manner. Admit that much remains to be learned about COVID-19 and its impact on the economy. Set realistic expectations. Admit vulnerability by acknowledging the likelihood of unforeseen events requiring corrective action along the way.

The COVID-19 recession will pass, as have all previous recessions. Stick to your strategic plan, but be flexible. Continue to lead and engage your workforce in ways that build trust. Face the battle by establishing two fronts—two separate teams. One is focused on surviving and getting back to normal while the other concentrates on anticipating and preparing for the new normal.