“The only consistent thing we have around here is change.” How many times have we heard a quote like this? Currently, most organizations are undergoing major changes.
I spoke with a colleague who said that, for some time, the writing was on the wall for some layoffs. It was so significant, that a consultant had been brought in to provide extensive training sessions to managers who were going to be responsible for executing the actual layoffs. This process went on so long, that most work hours were spent by the folks who were possibly going to be laid off calling each other to see if their managers were among those in the training sessions. They were being non productive, and spending much energy worrying.
No matter the origin, if there is big change in your organization, you need to begin communicating now. Do not wait until you are exactly sure of every detail before sharing what you know with your team. The rumor mill is accelerated by email these days. By the time you get everything lined up, the rumors will be rampant. And remember, in business, there is no such thing as a “good rumor”. When employees fill in the blanks, it’s not with good news.
It’s okay to communicate half the information if that is all you have. You can say, “Here’s what I know, and here’s what I don’t know.” You can add to the picture as it becomes clearer, and your employees will appreciate the candor and the care with which you took care of things.
