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August 21, 2009 If you are a Facebook friend, you will have seen some discussion concerning why the chicken crossed the road. My response was to the effect that we should ask the chicken. In the media, we have been hearing various pronouncements that the recession is over. But we are also hearing that the reductions in the workforce are not over. Companies are continuing to downsize and employees will continue to lose their jobs. The employees that still remain are doing more work than ever and have the constant threat of being downsized hanging over the head. How are they feeling and what can be done to help them? My response is that we should ask the employees. Why should employers care? I believe most employers do care for their employees from a human perspective. But even disregarding the human element, the effect on the employee's health will result in more absenteeism and increased drug/medical premiums. Additionally, there are many studies that show that an unhappy or overstressed employee is not as productive as an employee who is fully engaged and enjoying their work. If employees are working extreme hours or have too many things to do, they will not be as effective and efficient as they could be. What can employers do? The employees who have survived may be concerned that they will be the next to be terminated. Having regular communications with the employees is extremely helpful. It's important that all news, good or bad, is shared at regular intervals. Many employees fear the worst anyway so giving potentially bad news is better than receiving no news. Some employers only communicate with their employees when there is bad news to share and/or they require their employees' assistance. This further keeps employees on edge because they keep hearing rumours about another meeting to anounce further downsizing. Additionally, why not ask the employees how they are feeling and what you as an employer can do to make things better. It is important that you listen to what your employees have to say and not become defensive. Some employees need the opportunity to be heard and very much appreciate being able to talk to someone who is not defensive or judgmental--just someone who really cares and listens intently. Additionally, it is recommended that you make employees aware that you are also very overwhelmed and you may not be able to implement many of the ideas that are brought forward. Thank your employees for their efforts to date and their ideas. Encourage suggestions that can may implemented by the employees themselves or with very minimal effort or expense. By communicating regularly and honestly with your employees and by responding appropriately to suggestions, your employees will see that you really do care and this will relieve some of the stress. Why did the chicken cross the street? I don't know but I thought you would never ask...
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