Employees are Pacaderms

Tough times call for tough measures. I speak to companies every day that need to cut costs, steamline processes, and forgo investments in order to survive. At the same time some of these companies remember that once things turn around, they need their businesses to thrive and grow. Employees understand that companies must cut back and sometimes it means that co-workers lose their jobs. If management communicates effectively with their workers this understanding grows. If employees participate in redesigning process, the buy-in grows. However many companies don't do this or make smart decisions on ways to save money without the negative employee relations. Several businesses have taken a cavalier approach to how their decisions impact talent in their organizations. They look at the downturn and its impact on employees with the view "where are they going to go?" That is true...for now. Employees recognize if their companies are uncommunicative, unfair, or non-inclusive during this period. And when things get better, they will vote--either with their feet or their attitudes. I have been dismayed with the large number of dissatisfied employees I have met who are waiting for the economy to turn around. This isn't about being nice to your employees, it is about how the company can be financial strong in the future by retaining and riding talent. Companies who don't realize that an elephant and an employee never forget, may be in for a rude suprise and a tougher time improving with the economy.