The STEM leader series: part 1/10

Leadership in uncertain times: creating clarity when the fog is thick

Visual of leadership bringing clarity in uncertain times

Uncertainty is the new constant. Volatility, rapid change, and complexity are shaping the environment in which today’s executives must operate. Yet amid all this turbulence, your people don’t need all the answers—they need clarity.

And that’s precisely where strong leadership begins.

STEM Leaders: Logic Meets Ambiguity

As a C-level executive with a STEM background, you’re trained to rely on logic, data, and structured problem-solving. But what happens when the problem isn’t clearly defined?

Many technically trained leaders struggle when faced with the ‘fog’ of uncertainty. Ambiguous stakeholder expectations, shifting market dynamics, or complex team dynamics often can’t be solved straight away.

In those moments, leadership isn’t about having the perfect plan. It’s about creating a sense of direction.

Your People Don’t Need Certainty—They Need You

People don’t expect you to be a fortune teller. What they do need is someone who:

  • Provides a compelling ‘why’ even when the ‘how’ is still unclear
  • Communicates with consistency, even if not every answer is known yet

  • Models calm focus and confidence, especially when pressure is high

In my executive coaching work with senior leaders in engineering and manufacturing, one pattern always stands out:

The leaders who create clarity are the ones who gain trust and drive results.

The Communication Gap Most Leaders Underestimate

One of the most frequent reflections I hear from coachees: “I thought I was clear. But my team didn’t get it.” The truth?
Most leaders overestimate their communication skills.
Especially in high-pressure moments, messages get rushed, vague, or overly technical.

The result: confusion, disengagement, or misalignment.

One of my shortest coaching calls ever illustrates this clearly: “Heidi, my people don’t follow me.”

Me: “Where do they need to go to?” My coachee (after some silence): ok, I got it, thanks.”

A Clarity Checklist for STEM Executives

Here’s a simple framework I often share with my clients to bring more clarity, especially in times of change:

  • Have I explained why this change or decision matters beyond the technical rationale?
  • Have I communicated the direction more than the details?
  • Have I checked what my team has understood, not just what I have said?
  • Am I visible and available as a leader, not hiding behind data or meetings?

  • Have I taken time to listen, not just broadcast?

Clarity is a Leadership Superpower

In times of uncertainty, clarity is not a luxury. It’s your responsibility.
You don’t need to be perfect. You need to be clear.

And clarity starts with you.