Millions of jobs have been lost and many companies have gone under, while performance for others has dipped. At such times, employees undergo high levels of stress and anxiety due to fear of job losses. This has a negative impact on their ability to perform because they cannot concentrate on the job. At such times of crises, the true marks of a leader become evident. It is all easy to lead from the front when times are easy, the economy is booming, and your market share is expanding. At such moments challenges are few and far in between. However, it takes a true leader interested in CFO careers to propel a company on the brink of collapse and financial ruin to financial stability and success.
What kind of leadership should a CEO provide in such lean times to ensure that his company survives? In such times, there is a high level of uncertainty and no one is ever sure of anything. The true leader must continue to engage his team and provide assurance that things will work out. That is not the time to exhibit fear and doubt but faith. Many employees at such times are clueless on what they should do to escape the monster of uncertainty and fear of unemployment. This constant fear, worry and anxiety stifle productivity and leave them feeling hopeless. The leader must therefore be there to motivate and inspire them into positive thinking. The leader must be passionate about his dream and vision to see the company on its feet again.
The passion with which the CFO works at CFO jobs is contagious. Employees will be free from preoccupation with fear. Inform the team members that what they do has a purpose and it makes a difference in the company. Knowing that what they do has a purpose will create in them a renewed sense of optimism and creativity. Communication is an important skill for anyone aspiring for CFO careers. This is an important trait in a leader, especially when the organization is undergoing any form of change. Lack of communication or too little communication is disastrous for the organization. It breeds anxiety and resistance to change in the organization. Energies that ought to be propelled in fulfilling objectives are instead used to resist management efforts to sustain the organization. Too little information brings about rumor mongering and misunderstandings in the organization and because of this, talented staff members may leave the organization.
Assure the team that what they are doing is important to the company. They need to feel appreciated. They need to be involved and engaged in rough times and always be informed of what is going on. The marks of a true CFO for CFO jobs are the ability to inspire, motivate and communicate. As a leader, you may not have all the answers but your presence and your contribution at such hard times plays a very important role in your company's recovery strategy. Your continued presence and ability to inspire and provide direction throughout will inspire confidence in the team. Your passion and purpose will influence your team positively and nothing will be impossible for them to achieve.
In conclusion, all aspiring for CEO jobs should remember that it is important to clarify your mission and purpose at all times. Be passionate and communicate effectively and continuously. You should always connect personally with your team and recognize their efforts.
