How Can Pulling Employees Together Into a Team Maintain Productivity During Tough Economic Times?
Pulling survivors together into a team can overcome morale problems that occur as a consequence of downsizing. But it isn’t easy. You have to communicate a reality to the remaining employees: They have a vested interest in the future success of the organization.
This, by itself, isn’t sufficient. Each member will also have personal goals. As a manager, determine what each person needs, then show him or her how working as a member of the team will allow the person to meet that objective. Involve group members by practicing participative management. Including everyone in decision making can encourage collaboration in future successes.
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You can lure traditional loners into the action by defining the benefits of involvement and the special expertise they bring to the group. Don’t overlook part-timers, temporary workers, and independent contractors brought into the organization during downsizing, either. They represent an important part of the team and may be able to offer unique perspectives on problems based on their wide experience working for other organizations.