It is your responsibility as the leader to listen to and speak for your team. Most teams want to believe that “if push comes to shove”; you will speak up and defend them. You have to represent the team and their concerns. Now more than ever teams must establish a sense of trust with you, their leader, quickly. They will go the extra mile and push through many obstacles if and when they see you are willing to do the same.
A responsible leader is simply a liaison. Your role is to listen to your team and voice any concerns up the chain as appropriate and vice versa.
Today, most teams are trying to stay focused on work instead of the many rumors of downsizing and layoffs. It is critical that you do all that you can to keep your team from getting distracted. How do you do that? You should be truthful with your team and do what you can to ensure them you are working on their behalf to keep the team in tact. Be truthful with your management as well. Explain that your team is struggling to concentrate when the company is going through so many changes. Who knows, maybe you can suggest a fireside chat with upper management. Giving your team the opportunity to voice their concerns.
Sometimes that’s all it takes to gain the trust of your team. Sometimes that’s all it takes to hit a home run. Simply listen and create opportunities to alleviate stress. That is the job of a responsible leader.
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