If your company is laying people off, you may have already discovered that survivor’s syndrome is real. It isn’t just a phenomenon of war or natural disasters. It’s a contagion that can spread like wildfire through an organization after workforce reductions have occurred. Its symptoms, which include cynicism, distrust, reduced loyalty, and increased absenteeism, are the last things a company needs when facing troubling times.
One of the most important aspects of leadership, especially during rough economic times, is being real. Often leaders, especially newer ones, try to exude confidence by wearing a disguise with the end result being confusion, resentment, or in worst case scenarios sabotage. Cogency Group understands how tempting, yet detrimental it can be to wear that disguise. Being honest may place leadership in a vulnerable position in the short term but will pay dividends in the long term with respect earned from employees and worker satisfaction levels that will help keep productivity on track.
If you’re the captain of the ship, by now you should have advised your crew to don their life preservers. How you proceed will determine whether you will experience smooth sailing, relatively speaking at least, or join the ranks of the Titanic.
