3 Essential Strategies for Leading Through Uncertainty
Today's leaders navigate a world of constant upheaval, from economic shifts to geopolitical tensions to rapid technological change. Thriving in this environment requires more than just adaptability—it demands a new level of agility and resilience.
Recognizing the need for effective leadership in these turbulent times, Michigan Ross Executive Education brought together seasoned experts for a live webinar to discuss lessons learned from previous disruptions and inform leaders on the skills and strategies needed to lead through uncertainty.
Michigan Ross Professor Mike Barger, a former Navy TOPGUN instructor, JetBlue co-founder, and expert in crisis leadership, hosted the discussion, drawing on his extensive experience in high-stakes decision-making and organizational resilience. Dr. Barger was joined by former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, who notably guided the country’s largest city through the COVID-19 pandemic, and Dr. S. Sriram, who brings a wealth of experience in academic leadership and serves as the current Associate Dean for Graduate Programs at Michigan Ross.
"When there's a lack of vision, the dynamics of uncertain times just amplify.
Together, the panel emerged with three essential strategies to help leaders stay grounded and effective in the face of uncertainty.
Use Vision to Maintain Focus
A key theme in the panel’s dialogue was the importance of vision. "I think that the best thing a leader can always do is start with a vision," emphasized de Blasio, reflecting on his tenure during the pandemic. "When there's a lack of vision, the dynamics of uncertain times just amplify." He highlighted how consistent communication of a vision helps maintain focus and inspire confidence amid chaos. Dr. Sriram agreed, offering listeners essential components leaders need to get right when it comes to establishing a vision. “If you set a vision without buy-in from your team, I don't think it's going to go anywhere,” he remarked.
Practice Open Communication to Build Trust
The panel also emphasized that effective communication is crucial for building trust in times of crisis. de Blasio calls on leaders to practice transparency, noting that leaders don’t need to have all the answers—but must communicate openly. This approach, he explained, not only strengthens credibility but also provides much-needed stability, a strategy he employed through daily briefings during the pandemic. Dr. Sriram reinforced this idea, cautioning against rushing to conclusions without sufficient information and stressing the need for responsible communication.
Prioritize Self-Care for Sustainability
Recognizing that crises can often be ongoing or prolonged, de Blasio urged leaders to prioritize sustainable self-care. "I think every human being in leadership should have their own little sustainability plan. If you do not build and honor that [plan], you eventually will burn out," he cautioned. He emphasized that effective leadership isn’t possible without personal balance and that leaders should incorporate activities that rejuvenate them. Dr. Sriram echoed this idea, adding, "You have to enjoy what you're doing. And there's a difference between being stressed and being busy. It is okay to be busy; it's not okay to be stressed.”
Closing the webinar, both speakers left the audience with resonant encouragement. Dr. Sriram reminded listeners that leadership is a journey to be enjoyed, while de Blasio advised taking proactive steps, however small they may seem, to guide teams through adversity.
The full webinar recording is available to watch now at the link below.
Michigan Ross Executive Education is committed to supporting leaders in developing the skills, strategies, and resilience needed to navigate today’s unpredictable business landscape. Explore upcoming leadership programs designed to help you lead with confidence.
