Many of us in business have survived a number of disruptions, but none like this. This one feels personal because lives are at stake. While it’s imperative to jump into action to protect revenue, cut costs, and transition to remote work, we should also be mindful of the mental state of our employees. As a leader, it’s difficult to prepare for adversity while also offering hope for the future. And as we navigate new patterns of interaction, that notion extends to our friends and families. In times like these, communication can be challenging but transparency is paramount.

It also doesn’t hurt to maintain a sense of humor to get through the day. Here’s what has helped us at Hickok Cole:

• Regular all-office updates from leadership, including e-blasts and Town Halls, to provide a venue for information, suggestions, questions, and concerns
• “Official” Teams meetings accounting for all sectors and operations of the firm
• “Unofficial” Teams channels to share tips on working remotely, setting up your home office, finding ways to exercise, or keeping kids entertained
• Articles, webinars, and information on COVID-19 in the marketplace to educate and distract us
• Social media challenges highlighting the antics of children, pets…and yes, adults
• Virtual happy hours with games and other ways to interact and see each other’s smiling faces

At home, things are just as topsy-turvy. My partner, who builds, customizes and repairs musical instruments at his studio in Brookland, cannot work from home. Not deemed “essential” (except to the NSO and marine band), he’s looking for things to do. While I’m on all-day video calls, he’s practicing his trumpet in the bathroom closet. Luckily, there’s an endless list of home improvement projects to tend to! He struggles to find his routine while I report to work upstairs as un-usual, only reappearing for a quick lunch and later, dinner. We’re both finding ways to adjust and respect each other’s challenges in this alternate reality, just as we must help our employees to do the same.

Stay safe and be well,

Yolanda Cole, FAIA
Sr Principal, Hickok Cole
Governance Chair, ULI Washington

In ULI Washington’s new Leadership Insights column, ULI Washington will regularly feature member leader’s thoughts and insights as we adjust personally and professional to a “new normal.”