Have you ever found yourself in the midst of a significant change? Maybe it was expected, but you were not sure you were prepared when it happened. Or, perhaps, it was sudden. Unfortunately, during my life, I have experienced several earth-shaking events.
A significant change, whether expected or unexpected, can cause anxiety for everyone involved. For example, when I was hired into my current position, it was a significant change for my staff. The team was unprepared for the change because it was a new position.
Recently, the citizens of the United Kingdom have been dealing with a significant change. While anticipated based on her age, Queen Elizabeth II’s death was still a shock to the world. The Queen’s health was the subject of many conversations; however, her sudden passing was a surprise.
As a result of the Queen’s passing, Prince Charles became King Charles III upon her death. Although King Charles and the United Kingdom had nearly 70 years to prepare for his new role, the loss of the Queen caused anxiety for many individuals.
News reporters and people on the street wondered what type of monarch King Charles III would be. Articles were written on whether he would follow in his mother’s footsteps or be a new type of monarch. The press identified a recent photo of King Charles working as “less formal.”
Governmental leaders wondered if King Charles would use his influential voices to lift the concerns of the Commonwealth. As the Prince of Wales, King Charles was a strong advocate and outspoken in several areas, including the environment. However, some government officials wonder if he will remain politically neutral on topics he is very passionate about.
Stepping into a new position is exciting and challenging under the best of circumstances. However, assuming a new role while mourning the loss of your mother is thrilling and heartbreaking. Although a significant amount of time and preparation has been done to prepare for the transition, there are still opportunities for missteps.
What has King Charles done as a new leader to start his reign on the right foot?
- Communication: King Charles chose his name, and he gave his first formal address to the United Kingdom
- Public Relations: He visited strategic partners, i.e., Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. King Charles also went out to mourners outside of Buckingham Palace.
- Build Partnerships: King Charles hosted Heads of State, who attended the Queen’s funeral before the service.
- Model Expectations: During the ten days of mourning, King Charles modeled selfless service to his mother and family.
So, I know you are wondering if there were any missteps. Well, it depends on whom you ask. There was an incident where King Charles lost his temper over a faulty ink pen. Some would also raise the issue of inconsistency over which non-working royals could wear military uniforms. However, there were no significant missteps.
Now you are the new leader, and I know you are wondering what leadership lessons you can learn from King Charles. Although you are not the Head of State, you must communicate, connect with your team and customers, build new partnerships, and model expectations.
“I feel more than anything else it’s my duty to worry about everybody and their lives in this country, to try to find a way of improving things if I possibly can.”
-King Charles III
Remember, despite the circumstances, you are the leader, and your responsibility is to find ways to improve things.
Are you communicating, connecting with your team, building new partnerships, and modeling expectations?
#YourLeadershipGuide,
Kim
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