When Disruption Gives Lemons: Make Lemonade

Another major disruption: Persistent US Federal Government shutdown with no ready answers and seemingly, no end in sight. Obviously, that’s a strain on the 550-750,000 furloughed Federal workers – and even more so for those who are working without pay.

Far-reaching impact

Any shutdown of the US Federal Government has significant and far-reaching impact well outside the Federal Government space. It impedes economic growth and takes a human toll on many. Unlike the last shutdown in 2018-19, this shutdown comes on top of massive layoffs and operational upheavals across government agencies earlier this year. The magnitude of the impact is even greater.

Business context has changed

Disruption shifts the business context. In this case, slower economic growth resulting from the disruption generally impacts all businesses, whether or not your business serves the US Federal Government. Given the persistent roller-coaster of uncertainty already plaguing the year, simply waiting out the disruption is unlikely to serve you well.

The business context has changed. Again.

Revisit strategy

When disruption gives lemons, make lemonade. The executives I advise revisit strategy. They consider critical questions both to mitigate risk and position themselves for the future. It’s what I’ve termed, the art and necessity of playing both defense and offense.

Four actions executives take to advance strategy during disruption:

• Consider how resources are allocated and whether these remain the best opportunities. Think about the things you didn’t pursue during your last strategic review. Which of these make good sense now, in this new context?

• Listen to customers. Dive into customer feedback and more recent trends to identify new/tweaked products and services. Where are they hurting most? How might you relieve a pain or create a gain that will enhance satisfaction and inspire loyalty? 

• Tap into what your people know about opportunities to work differently and more effectively. Often great uncertainty – like a protracted government shutdown – is paralyzing. Focus on the areas that increase agility. This skill is mission critical in an uncertain world. How can we support staff in shifting gears quickly? What would make it easier for people to do their jobs effectively?

• Shore up talent. Skilled labor is perpetually tight. Leaders repeatedly tell me how difficult it is to secure the specific skillset and talent they need. For example, Federal workers represent an untapped pool of talent, for just about any sector or role. Many federal workers join their agencies out of a passion for the mission or a commitment to service. Both motivations are equally attractive in the private sector. And the upending of government agencies and massive layoffs earlier this year removed the promise of multi-year contracts or employment. What if you actively pursued disrupted workers to fill skills gaps?

Government shutdown is a major disruption. It impacts real people in real communities all over the country. Whatever business you’re in or the policies you support, ineffective government takes a tangible toll on the economy and people. Consequently, leaders must act to support people and keep strategy on track.

When disruption gives lemons, make lemonade. Take specific action to create opportunities that position your business for the future.