Uncertainty can leave employees feeling anxious, both about their current position and future prospects. How can you lead through uncertainty in a way that empowers your team, rather than destabilizes them?

Adopt an opportunity-first mindset. When discussing uncertainty, highlight the opportunities that lie ahead, for example, opportunities to experiment, innovate, or shift priorities and responsibilities. This framing helps focus attention on the potential for positive change, instead of what people are up against.

Be specific about what you’re facing—and how you plan to face it. For example: “We’re facing uncertainty about whether there will be more regulation of our products. As a result, we’re going to be prudent about further investment for the next six months and diversify into other markets.”

Share your experience. Reflecting on how you’ve navigated uncertain times in the past can remind your team that uncertainty is unavoidable—and renew their confidence that you’ll get through it together this time too.

Encourage people to be entrepreneurial. Push your employees to think outside the box, innovating and problem-solving autonomously.
This tip is adapted from “When Discussing Uncertainty, Highlight Opportunities for Your Employees,” by David Lancefield

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