Adaptability and Flexibility in the Workplace
Today’s volatile work environment constantly challenges us to adapt. Economic conditions, technological advancements, and consumer demand are examples of forces altering our business environment regularly– almost daily.
In our work lives, new external conditions translate into new teams, new projects, and new ways of performing tasks we’re used to doing in specific ways.
One glaring example of this need for adaptability and flexibility is the “return to office” (RTO) movement. Working from home (WFH) during the pandemic was challenging, but RTO poses challenges, too. Employees being asked to work in person (or hybrid in-person/remote) must work through the commute, the out-of-home business wardrobe, needing caregiver support for children and pets, etc.
Benefits of Adaptability
Adaptability helps employees thrive in today’s workplace.
In our complex and ever-evolving business environment, organizations need leaders and team members who can handle change. Employers seek flexible employees who can thrive under pressure and who can adjust their behaviors and strategies to meet new demands.
Those who continue to perform at high levels without missing a beat in times of upheaval will benefit from this ability – at work but also at home. Learning the skill of adaptability not only helps a person’s career but can actually lead to more satisfying relationships and better outcomes in your personal life as well.
Adaptability at work can lead to higher productivity.
Adaptability lets us learn faster and make better decisions. It helps us stay calm and focus on the bigger picture. We must adapt to see the opportunities rather than merely the challenges of change.
Our teams are likewise more productive when individuals don’t get stalled out due to fear or indecision. Unhealthy patterns of avoidance can lead to burnout. Leaders should watch team members get enough sleep, stay active, and eat well. Help them cultivate a healthy perspective on change. Remind them of the overarching purpose and mission, and show them how new initiatives link to the broader goals.
Adaptability is good for mental health.
Workplace changes can bring new demands and pressures that can mentally challenge everyone. Fortunately, for those who’ve developed the skill of adaptability, these changes are less jarring. Adaptability – a willingness and ability to evolve according to conditions – can reduce stress, improve focus, and encourage good mental health.
Adaptability itself encourages us to develop healthy coping mechanisms during times of change. Instead of numbing out, procrastinating, or ignoring a change, learn to address it head-on. Adaptability can help you stay calm, focused, and productive during stressful times. These are powerful qualities.
Signs and Tools for Developing Adaptability
What are some signs that you need to work on the skill of adaptability?
You may struggle to adapt if you find any of these conditions to be true:
Discomfort with new situations.
Unwillingness to change plans on the fly.
Rejection of a diversity of opinion on a subject.
Negative attitudes towards work.
You may be becoming too rigid in your thinking if you frequently find yourself thinking or saying things like, “That won’t work.” or “Forget it. We’ve already tried something similar and it failed.”
What are some ways to enhance your own adaptability?
You can improve your adaptability by taking these tactics:
Proactively work to understand other people's points of view.
Don't be afraid to ask questions.
Ask for feedback.
Try something new.
When was the last time you explored doing something in an unfamiliar way? How willing are you to try something where you might experience failure? The answers to these questions can tell you a lot.
What are some ways to facilitate team adaptability?
You improve your team’s adaptability in these ways:
Share best practices in adaptation.
Focus on communicating with a growth mindset.
Encourage peers to mentor one another in adaptability.
Reward open-minded problem-solving.
Invite curiosity toward new viewpoints and ways of working.
Remember that our brains are wired for survival, often meaning we look for problems by default. Regularly invite your team to consider possible positive outcomes of change.
Keys to remaining flexible at the organizational level
You’ve likely heard the mantra “adapt or die” and the phrase “strong enough to bend,” – but what do these mean in practice at the organizational level?
Develop intuitive processes.
Create knowledge management and retention systems.
Offer learning and skill-building opportunities.
Decentralize decision-making.
Spot bottlenecks early.
Pivotn offers thought-provoking leadership and management programs designed to develop and engage future leaders around the concepts of adaptability and flexibility. We can assess, measure, and grow a participant's leadership quotient through actionable planning.
While there are common themes and frameworks, some degree of customization is necessary to meet any given company's demands and unique needs. We have worked with companies as diverse as CCC Group Inc., Chevron Inc., Marriott Hotels, Prospanica, SABOR, US Air Force Reserve, US Navy, University of the Incarnate Word, and the University of Texas San Antonio.
What other traits are needed for leadership today?
As we wrote in our article, “Top 5 Leadership Traits in 2023,” Pivotn finds these five characteristics to be the most highly-sought after leadership traits:
Adaptability
Approachability
Courage
Curiosity
Resilience
How does your organization’s leadership measure up to each of these five traits? We can help you assess the path forward.
When leaders encourage adaptability in the workplace – ahead of change – it helps individuals adapt more nimbly when challenges inevitably arise.
Contact Pivotn today for strategies and guidance for developing an adaptable workforce – before you need it.
