Virtual Leadership from the Top

What changes for the senior leaders in hybrid contexts?

Senior leaders, according to our research, have managed the pandemic well in many, but not all industries. They have experienced the least stress, even reduced stress in many ways. Many companies are moving to hybrid working models – there seems to be little concern that this will be any different for senior leaders. But there are many unknown and underrated aspects that may erode many factors in any business, such as erosion of trust, culture, and loyalty.

Senior leaders seem to have navigated the pandemic well in terms of performance and stress levels. Many businesses have done surprisingly well during the pandemic. Obviously this is sector and industry dependent.

leading brains research, which I outline here, shows that senior leaders seem to be navigating the pandemic well. This does contrast to other research that suggests that CEO’s are feeling more stressed. This can be accounted for by

1. Some industries and sectors have struggled with the impacts of the pandemic

2. They have had to pivot and be involved in crises management

3. They are, like all of us, working in a new way or form

The observant will notice the stories of CEOs complaining of stress as being ironic. Many CEOs have driven change programmes and massive restructurings that have had multiple negative impacts on employees and now they have to change their behaviour and ways of operating and are reporting being stressed, really! Sorry CEOs I had to say that.

However, as I said our data paints a pretty good picture for senior leaders with many quoting less commute, much less business travel, and more efficient meetings (which is what they spend most of their day in). But the real question comes now in the new world of hybrid and remote working: what changes for leadership?