As an award-winning executive coach, Amanda Cahir-O’Donnell has witnessed first-hand how chaos can either paralyse or propel leaders and their teams. In today’s unpredictable business environment, the ability to lead through turbulence isn’t just a skill—it’s a necessity. Here’s Amanda’s advice for leaders navigating these stormy waters, drawn from years of coaching executives across a variety of different industries.
1. Be the Anchor, Not the Storm
When uncertainty hits, people instinctively look to leadership for steadiness. As a leader, you set the tone for the entire team. If you panic, others will likely follow suit. But when you stay grounded, you become the stabilising force that others can rely on. Staying calm and composed during uncertainty is your greatest asset. In chaotic times, focus on what truly matters and let go of the rest.
2. Communicate with Radical Clarity
Transparent, frequent communication is your lifeline. Even if you don’t have all the answers, sharing what you know—and what you don’t—builds trust from your team. Use simple, direct language and check for understanding. I encourage leaders to over-communicate during crisis; it’s better to repeat yourself than to leave room for confusion.
3. Make Decisions—Then Adapt
Chaos often means making decisions with incomplete information. Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Move forward, monitor outcomes, and be ready to pivot. The leaders I coach who thrive in uncertainty are those who act decisively, learn quickly, and adapt without letting personal pride or ego get in the way.
4. Lead with Empathy
People remember how you make them feel during tough times. Show genuine care—ask about your team’s well-being, listen actively, and offer flexibility, where possible. Empathy isn’t a soft skill; it’s a strategic advantage that fosters loyalty and resilience.
5. Foster a Learning Mindset
Every crisis is a classroom. Encourage your team to reflect on what’s working and what isn’t. Celebrate small wins and treat setbacks as learning opportunities. This mindset not only builds resilience but also drives innovation.
6. Remember: Leadership is a Juggle
I often use the metaphor of the circus in my coaching practice: “Leadership is a juggling act—success isn’t about never dropping a ball but about knowing which ones can bounce and which ones will break”. Embrace imperfection, prioritise ruthlessly, and give yourself—and your team—permission to be human.
Final Thought
Leading through chaos is challenging, but it’s also where the most profound growth happens for leaders. As an executive coach, my advice is simple: be the calm, communicate clearly, act with courage, and lead with heart. The leaders who do this don’t just survive chaos—they transform it into opportunity.
