Help to get back on track
Mar 25 2009 by Peter McCusker, The Journal
DEALING with the aftermath of redundancy can be a challenge which businesses have to overcome if they are to move forward successfully, says Tony Weightman of human resource consultancy Weightman Associates.
This is one of the many issues which will be addressed at a special conference – called Retention, Restructure and Redundancy – organised by nebusiness and Newcastle-based Weightman Associates.
Mr Weightman said: “Most organisations tend to think that when the redundant employees have left the organisation, their problems are over.
“The more switched-on companies know this is just the start of the hard work.
“Those who have successfully remained with the company often suffer from what is widely known as ‘survivor syndrome’. This is where the person is likely to feel guilt that they were selected to stay.
“They will feel others should have had their place in the organisation.
“Too often mangers believe the ‘survivors’ will feel euphoric and pleased. The reality is not so.
“To help to re-grow the organisation it is essential to develop even more effective communications. All staff need to know what is happening in the business and how it affects them.
“Each person needs regular personal feedback and praise for good work. It is a manager’s duty to use their motivational skills to best effect. They need to be even more visible than in the past. This allows them to see what is really happening and be able to react accordingly to keep the situation positive.”
Some of the region’s leading executives, business advisers, lawyers and economists will give companies of all sizes the advice they need to deal with the realities of the economic downturn at the Retention, Restructure and Redundancy conference.
Hundreds of firms from the region are expected to attend the conference, which has been organised by nebusiness and Newcastle business advisers Weightman Associates.
The conference includes expert sessions on how to deal with the legal details of restructuring and “downsizing”, the best ways to restructure your company, how to motivate staff and how to rebuild the business after a big shake-up.
Those speaking include economists from One North East, consultants from Business Link and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, and human resources directors from companies which have been through major restructure such as Electrolux.
Retention, Restructure and Redundancy is at Newcastle Falcons Rugby Club on May 21. For details, contact Jennifer Cook on (0191) 204-3310 or jennifer.cook@ncjmedia.co.uk
