When Discussing Uncertainty, Highlight Opportunities for Your Employees

All the recent talk of uncertainty can leave employees feeling anxious, both about their current position and prospects. They may become reactive, defensive, and inward-looking, as if to insulate themselves from the effects of the uncertainty. Asking them to be resilient, flexible, and committed, as many leaders do, can create additional pressure and make things worse. What does it take for executives to manage uncertainty in a way that’s empowering to employees, rather than anxiety inducing? The author offers four strategies to help you frame uncertainty positively to encourage people to seize the opportunities it brings.