Roll with it - leadership in challenging times

As I’ve been coaching leaders during the coronavirus crisis and observing others, I’ve noticed that they tend to fall into one of three categories in terms of their response to the times:
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1. They’re taking a wait and see approach;
2. They’re taking a proactive approach; finding ways to continue their good work, articulating it appropriately to their community and still seeking support (but with respect to the unique economic environment); 
3. They’re not only going with option #2, they’re also using this time to learn, grow and develop...

It won’t surprise you that I’m a huge fan of #2 and love #3 even more!  The reason I love doing what I do is that I’m always amazed and inspired by the leaders I work with.  In fact, I thought I’d make this week’s an opportunity to inspire others by highlighting the actions and approaches I’ve noticed among the amazing leaders I work with over the past two months:

• Roll With It:  Michael Campbell is the Founder and Executive Director of the Street Smarts (www.thestreetsmarts.org). This growing organization helps aspiring students land their first post-college professional jobs in finance and accounting.  The Street Smarts had a major fundraising event scheduled for May and like so many others, it’s been cancelled. Michael has re-imagined the event to be virtual.  What’s impressed me is that 1) Michael is truly excited about the opportunity to re-imagine his event and has fully embraced the technology to do it. He’s even worked extra hard to develop a relationship with one of the biggest companies in his area to learn how to maximize the event for both the fundraising potential as well as community building.

• Going Deeper:  Jim Garden is a leader I work with that is incredibly reflective about himself as well as the value proposition and impact of his organization Good Karma Bikes (www.goodkarmabikes.org).  Fortunately, his nonprofit has been able to continue operations during the coronavirus.  In fact, they’ve re-tooled some of their resources to serve their community in a way that is both incredibly helpful while keeping well within their mission.  Beyond current operations however, this thoughtful leader is using this moment to consider longer term strategic questions including the clients they serve, the depth of impact and as well as partnerships and collaboration.

• Keep Moving Forward:  Katie Wyatt is an incredibly passionate leader that created incredible programs and the infrastructure of an organization prior to her move to the United States.  Her work provides self worth programs to women and children affected by trauma. She’s been incredibly determined to bring this vital work to the United States. While she’s needed to be mindful and sensitive to the times, she hasn’t let the current challenges stop her from moving forward in her quest to launch her organization No Rain No rainbows www.norainnorainbows.org.   She’s recruiting leadership and creating a sustainable model for change.

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I hope these quick stories serve as reminders that the work of you and your organization is important.  That was true before this crisis, even more critical while we’re in the midst of it and still will be when it’s over.   If I can help you and your organization navigate through these challenging times and plan for better ones ahead, please contact me at robert.grabel@yournonprofitnow.com 



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