“CEOing” in Place During the Corona Virus Pandemic - by Cary Hatch ('00)

Admittedly, I’m a type-A leader, avid networker, and am occasionally described as a force of nature. I bet you are too.  So what’s a vigilant CEO to do during a pandemic and National State of Emergency?

Virtually every organization and business has implemented team-member health protocols, remote working and other business continuity plans. Check and check. Beyond these important initiatives, how does one turn pent-up energy into productive and calming activities?

I’m adopting some new thinking – both to keep my sanity and to champion and model behavior that’s rational and responsible. It’s fair to say it’s challenging to override my natural instincts and daily protocols to comply with what I know to be the right thing to do as a good corporate citizen, leader and neighbor.

Despite the internal battle between my conscience and my hard-wired urge to proceed as usual, I’m conceding and embracing the notion of staying busy and productive by doing the following:

My Personal Sanity Protocol (in no particular order):

• Terrific and inspiring books/stories have been “on my list”- Audible + Podcasts
• Remaining positive and accessible to team members, clients and vendors.  
• Updating our family legacy – Ancestry
• Charitable gathering at home – to donate to Goodwill
• Intermittent check-ins on the pandemic status and any resulting industry/corporate responses
• Walking/hiking: phone a friend during your outing- (Debbie Kaplan, Debra Silimeo, Josh Carin)
• Binge-watching-  NARCOS, Ink Master, Say Yes to the Dress, Bloomberg – The David Rubenstein Show: Peer to Peer Conversations
• Travel & Leisure: 12 Museums Around the World London to Seoul
• Business Strategy review/tune-up
• Updating my social channel profiles, contacts, etc.
• Stay calm and carry on.

I’d love to hear how you’re navigating this new environment and calming your inner thoroughbred. chatch@mdbcomm.com

Be well and stay safe.