In this uncertain business world today, leadership is not so much about strategy — it's about stability. The only thing that remains constant is change, so leaders must discover methods to keep their teams focused, energized, and emotionally grounded. So, how do you maintain hope if the future is unclear?

Bizwomen Leadership Council will provide its best tips further. Their answers reinforce one basic truth: clarity, communication, and empathy are the secrets to being an excellent leader — especially in the unexpected.

Why Leadership Matters More in Times of Uncertainty

Whether economic turmoil, sector transformation, or global disruption, uncertainty is part of the modern workplace. Employee engagement has hit an all-time low over the last ten years, according to a Gallup report, largely fueled by confusion, poor communication, and fear of losing one's job.

That’s why learning how to motivate your team during uncertainty is no longer optional — it's mission-critical.

1. Transparency and Trust Take Charge

StevenDouglas Managing Director Laurie Canepa feels no one expects teams to have perfect leaders — they just want honesty.

“No one wishes to work in a situation where there is uncertainty or fear,” she claims. "You want the staff to understand that you're being truthful to them about the situation and continually seeking solutions."

Her plan is a simple but powerful ritual: one "win" every Friday, however small, contributed by each member of her staff. She posts them openly on LinkedIn, reinforcing optimism and giving employees tangible moments of pride.

2. Focus on What's Controllable

Jennifer Carlson, Robert Half's Region Director, VP, says that simplicity is what combats the feeling of being overwhelmed.

“We manage our attitude and our production," she reminds her staff. "Simplifying things and being positive keeps everyone moving."

By focusing on achievable goals and incremental progress, Carlson shifts the dialogue from fear to empowerment — a sound strategy where long-term vision is not an option.

3. Communication Brings Calm

Karen Vineyard, Bank of America's Market Executive, is a strong advocate of overcommunication.

"I stay calm and work on keeping my employees' minds on what they can control," she continues. "I try to over-communicate to them and get them to over-communicate to our customers."

With over 54% of American employees suffering from severe stress due to job insecurity (APA), frequent updates and open-door policies ensure the psychological safety necessary for teams to stay motivated.

4. Create a Culture that Seeks to Change

Hillary Spreizer, CEO of The Latitude Group, leans into the chaos.

"Chaos is the new normal," she says. "So, it's helpful to point that out and find stability somewhere else."

She emphasizes accountability, quantifiable objectives, and a resilient team mentality. She has a company culture that accepts ambiguity but responds to it with clarity of expectations — a shrewd tactic, given that Gallup research indicates that only 50% of employees today have a clear understanding of what's expected of them.

5. Shared Rituals Sustain Resilience

Traci Schweikert, founder of Talent Engagement Strategies, believes resilience is learned, not born.

In a period of utmost stress, she began weekly sessions and exercised total openness — even when all the answers were missing.

Slack "High-Five Fridays" complete with shoutouts and meme parades were staff favorites. "It's fun and reminds us we're doing this together," she adds.

6. Stay Present and Purposeful

Simply Home CEO Ashley Wainscott keeps her employees grounded with frequent compliments and intent that faces outward.

"Weekly meetings that are based on weekly small wins keep the momentum going," she says. "And volunteer work keeps us focused on what we can give back in the world."

When employees feel they are serving something bigger than themselves, they create meaning that transcends the day-to-day stress.

7. Step Back to See Forward

Janna Paulson, President of Peel Paulson Design Studio, suggests a physical reboot can refresh staff attitude.

“We recently returned from a company retreat in San Antonio. It was great to reflect, reframe, and refocus as a team.”

When daily routines become overwhelming, stepping back can rekindle vision and inspiration.

8. Connect One-on-One

Jolsna Thomas, the Rosendin Foundation President, describes that one-to-one regular check-ins are the key to team harmony.

“We lead with empathy. Daily, one-on-one meetings foster trust and openness.”

These personal conversations not only show individual struggles but also prove that every voice is listened to.

Key Takeaways: How to Motivate Your Team During Uncertainty

If you're a founder, manager, or leader venturing into uncharted territory, here's how to motivate your team during uncertainty, as explained by these successful leaders:

·         Be Honest Even When It's Difficult: Honesty about challenges, even when you can't provide all the solutions, builds trust.

·         Celebrate Small Wins: Tracking of progress and achievement builds morale and momentum.

·         Communicate Consistently: Information gaps create fear — frequent communication closes that loop.

Expect the Unexpected: Build a Flexible, Robust, and Accountability-Driven Culture

Reconnect to Purpose: Highlight your teammates' work in support of clients, communities, and each other.

Create Space to Reflect: Either in retreats or open forums, give the team space to regroup and recharge.

Lead With Empathy: One-on-one discussion builds loyalty and clarity. Finally, uncertainty doesn't only test your business model — it tests your leadership. And the best leaders often don't have clarity to offer. They offer connection, consistency, and the courage to keep showing up.

So next time you're trying to figure out how to get your team in motion when there's uncertainty, begin with what's human. Show up, tell the truth, celebrate frequently, and lead like people are watching, because they are.