If You Decide to Downsize Much has been learned from organizations that have downsized in recent years. It is critical for the highest level of management to establish open communications about why a downsizing is occurring and the process to be used. One benefit of senior management involvement is the ability to emphasize that the decision was made at the highest level of the organization and is final. It is also an opportunity to stress to survivors the need for their commitment and buy-in for the chosen business direction, which will result in a healthier organization, benefiting not only the organization but the community as a whole. Finally, senior management communications let employees know that the senior leadership is well aware of the impact on both surviving and departing employees.
Strategic planning is another critical element of a successful downsizing.
Failing to review the mission, vision, processes, services and products of your organization can result in fewer people available to do the same amount of work, whether it is valuable to the organization or not. This in turn de-motivates employees, creates low morale and can result in losing key talent needed to drive your organization. The strategic planning process provides the framework for revitalizing your organization and creating a shared vision of the future. Career transition assistance. It is important to establish programs to help employees affected by downsizing.