Leading under pressure is the daily experience for those at the helm of local government. Financial constraints, increasing demands for services, and a rapidly changing societal landscape are but some of the challenges facing leaders today. The ongoing Local Government Reorganisation underscores the need for adaptability, efficiency, and a renewed focus on long-term sustainability. In parallel, other sectors, such as health, are increasingly shifting towards preventative approaches—an ethos that local government leadership also benefits from in addressing some of the most significant systemic challenges.
To help address these challenges, the Leadership Centre has developed the Six Cs development framework, bringing renewed insight through the lenses of Candour, Connection, Clarity, Control, Cohesion, and Courage. Developed from a wealth of knowledge and expertise gathered over twenty years working with leaders across local government, we believe these six areas provide a powerful analysis for charting a path forward in difficult times.
Candour: The Foundation of Trust
When under pressure, leaders may at times shy away from candour, opting instead for avoidance or guarded communication. However, true candour is critical in creating trust and transparency. By fostering an environment where honest dialogue is welcomed, leaders can inspire loyalty and foster greater levels of collaboration, leaving them in a better position to navigate crises effectively. Ultimately, candour underpins the ability to confront challenges head-on, ensuring that teams remain aligned and morale stays strong, even in the face of adversity.
Connection: Building Resilient Relationships
The ability to connect with others is vital for all leaders, but never more so than during challenging periods. Connection goes beyond communication; it involves fostering meaningful relationships and cultivating trust. Leaders who prioritise connection —even when stress and operational pressures mount—lay the groundwork for a culture of collaboration, resilience and support. In contrast, disconnected leadership risks alienating the very teams who are needed to help develop solutions.
Clarity: A Beacon in Complexity
In moments of uncertainty, clarity is indispensable. Leaders who can articulate clear priorities and strategic direction, help to avoid confusion and support their teams to remain focused on the issues which are of greatest importance. Under pressure, it is not uncommon for a greater level of ambiguity and indecision to emerge. Leaders who are clear empower their teams to stay focused, motivated and engaged helping to navigate complex and evolving circumstances.
Control: Stability Amidst Chaos
Control, when balanced and intentional, is a stabilising force. Effective control involves establishing clear boundaries, maintaining discipline, aligning actions with organisational goals and, crucially, being able to discern what you should and shouldn’t seek to control. Under pressure, control can morph into micromanagement or inconsistency, eroding trust and focus. Leaders who practice healthy control create an environment of support and empowerment, enabling their teams to adapt and thrive.
Cohesion: Strength in Unity
Cohesion reflects a leader’s ability to unify their team around shared goals, fostering collaboration and mutual support. In high-pressure situations, cohesion becomes a critical asset, as teams that work together effectively can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Conversely, a lack of cohesion can lead to a diffusion of effort and impact and, at its worst, division and disconnection, weakening morale and effectiveness. Leaders who prioritise unity build stronger, more resilient teams.
Courage: Leading with Integrity
Courage is perhaps the most visible hallmark of effective leadership under pressure. It requires making difficult decisions, standing firm in one’s values, and embracing uncertainty with confidence and integrity. Courageous leaders inspire their teams to persevere and innovate, even in the face of fear or resistance. By demonstrating courage, leaders become a source of stability and grounded hope for those they lead.
The Six Cs in Action
The Six Cs framework is not simply a diagnostic tool; it’s a developmental process that provides a roadmap for progress. By identifying strengths and areas for growth, leaders can find new pathways to ensure purpose, optimism, and capability. In local government—where the stakes are high and the pressures unrelenting—these domains can make the difference between surviving and thriving. Let’s start a conversation about how we can support your leadership journey. Reach out to us to explore what’s possible.