Adaptability is a key soft skill for virtual leaders Adaptability empowers a virtual leader to thrive within a rapid change environment Speaking broadly, adaptability in a leader is seen when learning new skills to change the course of their choices and their actions in response to circumstances that are in a rapid change pattern. The cycle looks like this: Rapid change → Recognized need for new skill development → Different choices are needed → Different actions must be pursued → the next phase of rapid change Three things to consider with seeking the evidence of adaptability in a leader: 1. Being grounded so you can soar 2. A willingness to shift thoughts and ideas that result in relevant actions for times of rapid change 3. Focusing on an energy that moves the work from transaction (getting tasks done) to transformation (discovering what really matters and then unleashing actions that make a difference) Adaptability empowers a virtual leader to thrive within a rapid change environment! Three things that are missing if virtual leaders are not demonstrating adaptability. 1. Continued reference to the existing way of doing things. 2. A lack of inclusion in new partnerships 3. Confusion and uncertainty on changing priorities. Virtual leadership for many is a new normal that will fundamentally change the lives for many of today’s leaders. If you are, or work with, virtual leaders, let me encourage you to affirm what grounds you and they determine the willingness to adapt to the value found in a new normal. “You cannot be the same, think the same, and act the same if you hope to be successful in a world that does not remain the same.” John Maxwell, international leadership expert. Maxwell, J. (2019). Leadershift: the 11 essential changes every leader must embrace. USA: Harper Collins, p. 7 My name is Niña Ellison, Leadership Consultant and coach. You can reach me at http://www.healthyleadership.online/ (www.healthyleadership.online). Going forward you will see a new format to this podcast, The Art of Leadership, as I am shifting to publishing a podcast monthly. I look forward to connecting with you virtually at the end of March!