Igniting Resilience At Work

by: Charmaine Hammond

During uncertain and changing times, teams often experience stress, fear and increased conflict.  Workplace resilience is an essential skill for sustainability, overcoming challenges, and recession busting.

Resilience is commonly defined as the ability to bounce back after change, challenge, conflict and adversity. One manager sought out many ways to build resilience in the team throughout the year, so that in times of change, downturn and turmoil, the team would be able to respond with less stress and interruptions to morale and productivity.

As the manager and some internal champions initiated resilience building activities, the ignited resilience took on a positive contagion and spread throughout the workplace.  Here are some ideas to foster resilience in your workplace: 

• weekly motivational quotes via email and on staff bulletin boards
• getting back to daily coffee breaks
• monthly staff BBQ
• quarterly voice mail messages from CEO to entire staff
• lunch time walking group
• once a week yoga class onsite over lunch
• financial planning workshops
•  innovation awards.

When teams tap into their individual and collective resilience, they are better equipped to effectively manage issues with minimal interruption.

By investing in the team, creating a common purpose, demonstrating proactive leadership, and strengthening processes, like this manager did, you build a solid and resilient foundation - a team that stands the test of time.

Posted in: Relationships, Staying Positive, Change