How vigilant leaders prepare for a turbulent future

Abstract

Purpose When the Covid-19 pandemic struck some organizations were more vigilant and better prepared to absorb the shock and are emerging stronger. This article describes the best practices of these vigilant organizations that enabled them to be more adept at anticipating whatever surprises are coming next. Design/methodology/approach The article describes the four ways that vigilant firms are distinguished from their under-performing vulnerable rivals. Findings Vigilant firms practice: A strong commitment to processes that promote vigilance. 10;9;They invest in foresight activities. They deploy flexible and adaptive strategy-making processes. They coordinate and share information across organizational silos. Practical implications Vigilance is rewarded when an organization is able to move faster than rivals once the ambiguities shrouding the weak signals of potential threats or nascent opportunities are clarified. Originality/value The practices of the vigilant organizations enable them to be more adept at anticipating whatever surprises are coming next, a crucial capability in the current and post-covid era.