Learn who we are and how we serve our community
Meet our leaders, trustees and team
Developing the next generation of talent
Covering the latest news and trends in the marketplaces industry
Check out wide-ranging resources that educate and inspire
Learn about the governmental initiatives we support
Connect with other professionals at a local, regional or national event
Find webinars from industry experts on the latest topics and trends
Grow your skills online, in a class or at an event with expert guidance
Access our Member Directory and connect with colleagues
Get recommended matches for new business partners
Find tools to support your education and professional development
Learn about how to join ICSC and the benefits of membership
Stay connected with ICSC and continue to receive membership benefits
“This is a crucible moment,” said Mark Nevins, president of New York City-based business management consulting firm Nevins Consulting. “Everybody is going to remember how you managed yourself.”
Speaking on an ICSC webinar called Leadership in a Time of Crisis, he said readers should take the first hit from any cost-cutting measures, and they should let employees and customers know. Transparency with customers and employees is important, Nevins said. “Over-communicate because things are changing so fast.” Remind people of the vision and mission of the company, he suggested. “Talk about what you’re looking to achieve.”
Successful leaders will focus on short-term issues right now, as the long term remains so unpredictable, Nevins said. “Go back to the first quarter and see what worked,” he advised. “Go to the second quarter and ask: ‘What must we execute, and what can we put on hold?’ Then make a third list: things we are not going to do.”
When making the call to furlough or lay off employees, always consult with an employment attorney first, advised Jennifer L’Estrange, managing director for Red Clover, which helps businesses with change management. Also make cuts strategically, she said. “It’s not a time to redesign but to redeploy. Look at the team and say who are the best players who are supercommitted and make the decisions that preserve the best people.”
According to Nevins, some team members might have to take on new jobs, and new services and products may need to be introduced. “Rethink what it means to be an entrepreneur in this environment.”
L’Estrange also pointed out that managers whose employees are working from home for the first time face new challenges. Regular videoconferences are important, she said, and “be sure to include video. Meeting rhythms are critical. Checking in several times a week is critical.”
The webinar is available here (Chrome works best).
Stores are the best way to reach the fast-growing cannabis retail market
10 communication tips to prepare for reopening
Which tech tools are best for remote work?
How to access government cash
Next steps for job seekers
Smart restaurants are prepping for new normal
How to ask a lender for relief
Government loans that can help small businesses during COVID-19
Communications are key for retail centers’ pandemic response
By Brannon Boswell
Executive Editor, Commerce + Communities Today