Leading Through Uncertainty Post-Covid

When it comes to COVID-19, the negative impacts are undeniable. Unemployment claims have reached historic highs, small businesses are struggling to adapt, and the mental health of millions of Americans is under significant strain. College graduates are facing diminished job prospects, political tension is escalating, and supply-chain disruptions have left grocery shelves empty. The level of uncertainty and stress can make it feel as though we may never again enjoy simple, everyday experiences like a summer baseball game or time with friends on a patio.

From Anxiety to Preparedness

Take a moment and pause. Take a deep breath. And another. It is natural to dwell on the uncertainty and to feel overwhelmed. These are normal human responses, and it is important to acknowledge and work through them. At the same time, we also know that at some point we will stabilize and resume more familiar routines. When that time comes, being prepared will make a critical difference. Some organizations will struggle to regain their footing, while others will emerge from this crisis stronger, more resilient, and better positioned to move forward. For leaders who are focused on the latter outcome, it can be helpful to look at how innovation has historically emerged in periods of disruption. The following examples are reminders that progress can be born out of hardship—and that there are real reasons to plan with optimism for a better tomorrow.

Innovation During the Post–World War I Recession

Let’s step back in time to the 1910s. Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Jacob Schick was staking mining claims in Alaska when he developed the idea for a razor that would not require water or shaving cream. In 1921, he invented a razor modeled after the military repeating rifle, which ultimately evolved into the Schick electric razors found in millions of American homes today. Consider the environment in which he was innovating: World War I had just ended, and the United States was navigating a post-war recession. Unemployment was high, families were facing economic hardship, and the global outlook was uncertain. While more than a century has passed, the core lesson remains consistent. Despite the adversity around him, Colonel Schick focused on innovation, preparation, and execution. His ability to persist and plan, rather than be defined by the economic climate, laid the groundwork for a lasting enterprise.

Hewlett and Packard: Building Through the Great Depression

Now, fast-forward. The year is 1939. The United States is emerging from the Great Depression, and conditions are far from ideal. The economy is contracting, unemployment is still elevated, and labor strikes are affecting millions of workers. In Palo Alto, California, in a one-car garage, Bill Hewlett and David Packard are designing electrical equipment. They had just secured their first major contract with Walt Disney in 1938 and were beginning the journey that would lead to the creation of the technology company now known as HP Inc. Like Colonel Schick, Hewlett and Packard advanced in a climate characterized by fear and uncertainty. They remained focused on their mission, grounded in their technical expertise, and committed to long-term preparedness rather than short-term turbulence.

Patterns of Resilience Across Crises

These are not isolated stories. Motorola’s car radios were introduced in the 1930s. More recently, companies like Smashburger and Groupon were founded during the Great Recession. from this crisis stronger, more resilient, and better positioned to move forward. For leaders who are focused on the latter outcome, it can be helpful to look at how innovation has historically emerged in periods of disruption. The following examples are reminders that progress can be born out of hardship, and that there are real reasons to plan with optimism for a better tomorrow.

Returning Again to the Schick Example

Let’s step back in time to the 1910s. Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Jacob Schick was staking mining claims in Alaska when he developed the idea for a razor that would not require water or shaving cream. In 1921, he invented a razor modeled after the military repeating rifle, which ultimately evolved into the Schick electric razors found in millions of American homes today. Consider the environment in which he was innovating: World War I had just ended, and the United States was navigating a post-war recession.

Strengthening Your Workforce for the Next Phase

As you navigate COVID-19 and plan for recovery, now is the time to turn reflection into action by assessing where your workforce strategy proved resilient, and where it showed signs of strain. Identify the capabilities you will need to compete in the next phase of healthcare delivery and where a different approach is required. If you are ready to strengthen your staffing model and build a more agile, compliant workforce, connect with RepuCare to explore how our clinical staffing and recruitment solutions can support your recovery plan.