Affecting Change Memo

Affecting Change Memo

University of Phoenix

Affecting Change Memo

To: Smith & Falmouth Online Managing Staff

From: Chief Operating Officer

Date: February 15, 2010

Subject: Restructuring Strategy

Due to my current to my current promotion to Chief Operating Officer (COO), I have witnessed a great amount of resistance to change and overall low employee morale. Resistance to change can be a positive thing because; According to Robbins & Judge, “It provides a degree of stability and predictability to behavior”. “If there weren’t some resistance, organizational behavior would take on the characteristics of chaotic randomness.” (Robbins & Judge, 2007, p. 647) However, there is a distinct downside to resistance to change; it gets in the way of adaptation and progress. In order for us to streamline the online process, increase the reach of the online business sales channel, and to make Smith & Falmouth (S&F) online a profitable business unit; we need to work together for the overall well being of the company.

As acting COO, I recommend a restructuring strategy that will improve the culture of our company and empower our employees. First and foremost, communication is the key and is essential in order for us to improve our company culture. Therefore, all managing staff should have and keep an open door policy. With an open door policy employees will feel more comfortable talking to management about their issues and concerns. This will also allow for employees to focus more on their work versus harboring bad feelings toward the management staff. Second, we are going to allow more participation from our employees. From this point on at least one non- managing employee will be a part of any decision making process that takes place in regards to online sales for S&F. Third, we will be offering more employee rewards and incentives to boost employee morale and...