Nazar Gulyktech entrepreneur, founder of Empat and leader of the TechStars community.
As a technology entrepreneur who has led a business through significant global crises, I have learned that uncertainty is our constant companion.
It’s a daily reality in the world of technology. But by embracing uncertainty and implementing the following strategies, you can lead your team to not only survive, but thrive in any circumstance. The key is to remain adaptable, focused and committed to continuous improvement, both personally and organizationally.
Here’s how.
1. Welcome the unknown.
Treat uncertainty like your ecosystem. It’s not a phase; This is the norm for entrepreneurs. So roll up your sleeves and work daily. Small, consistent steps can lead to significant growth over time.
If you have a small team, embrace it. During crises, compact, agile teams can pivot quickly and execute effectively. Know and focus on your team’s strengths and leverage them, especially in a crisis. For example, in every project we worked on during difficult times, we took care of the technical aspects, leveraging our IT expertise. My company grew from 40 to 120 team members amid uncertainty, showing that focused teams can drive growth even in turbulent times.
It is also important to view challenges as opportunities. When you and your team shift your mindset in this way, you can turn setbacks into opportunities for innovation and growth.
2. Develop a strategy for success.
When faced with uncertainty or crisis, remember to analyze and plan. Stay in your business, but watch the market. Connect with industry leaders and anticipate how new technologies could reshape your sector.
It’s also a good time to reevaluate routines. External pressures force us to rethink our actions. Use uncertainty as an opportunity to optimize processes and eliminate inefficiencies in your business.
During difficult times, I also recommend leveraging partnerships wisely. Collaborate with partners who take responsibility for their part of the project. Clear accountability is essential to success in times of uncertainty.
Finally, make sure to maintain the effectiveness of all initiatives. During our response to the crisis, for example, we applied the same rigor to all projects, whether commercial or social. We also set clear deadlines, requirements and standards to ensure a high-quality outcome while avoiding burnout.
3. Think of culture as a strategy.
Your company culture isn’t just a benefit; it’s a fundamental business strategy. At my company, we have built a culture of innovation and trust, and this culture drives our resilience and growth in times of uncertainty.
To foster this type of culture in your own company, make your core values non-negotiable. Although strategies may change, your organization’s core values must remain consistent. These values guide decision-making and unite your team, particularly in times of crisis.
Prioritizing diversity and cultural fit when recruiting is also essential. A diverse team generates innovative ideas. When recruiting, I take into account personal passions and lifestyles as well as professional skills to ensure strong cultural alignment. I also recommend implementing a robust onboarding process. Multi-stage interviews and extended conversations in real working atmospheres ensure mutual understanding and alignment of passions.
4. Don’t neglect personal growth.
During crises, be sure to prioritize personal renewal. I use running as a form of meditation. Find your own method to refresh your perspective and keep moving forward.
Also, never stop learning. Continuing education can provide new perspectives for visualizing and solving problems creatively, which can be especially helpful when facing uncertainty. For example, I joined a leadership program.
Leading through uncertainty
As technology leaders, we have the unique opportunity to transform challenges into catalysts for innovation and growth. By fostering a culture of trust, maintaining core values, and remaining committed to your mission, you can navigate even the most turbulent times and come out stronger on the other side.
To navigate and grow through difficult times, we as leaders must be like a phoenix, constantly reinventing ourselves. Going from a $1 million business to $10 million and then to $100 million or more requires a transformative mindset shift. Uncertainty challenges us to continually evolve. It requires daily self-work and a commitment to personal growth to strengthen us for the journey ahead. Good luck on this journey.
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