If your work environment seems overly intense, anxiety laden and replete with directions that are countermanded and countermanded again, there still may be hope. The first step on the road to normalcy is for management to recognize that even though the survivors did not lose their jobs, they were traumatized by the event of their friends being laid off. After acknowledging the trauma, managers should make certain they communicate accurately and openly with the employees. Managers should not try to smooth things over and reassure everyone that the layoffs have ended if they are not absolutely certain that there will be no more reductions. In reality, continuing staff reductions is the more common scenario.
Employees play an important role in resolving the dysfunction.
They must accept that the old paradigm of work and career is changing to a new reality of employment. Successful employees will take responsibility for their success by bringing value to their organizations. Teams will form, disband, and reform as projects begin, mature, and end. Employees who upgrade their skills to stay current with the market demands will grow and thrive. Employees who do not expand their skill set will see their careers plateau and wither.