Management Behavior

As you all know, the recent acquisition of EnviroTech has created a stir amongst our employees. In addition to the stress generally expected from such a change, rumors are rampant, employee morale is low and many are taking a stance against management out of fear of the unknown. I want to remind you all that it is each your responsibility to exhibit appropriate behavior at all times.

As we begin the integration process, many of our staff will be busy in extensive training classes learning about new products and service packages as well laws, compliance, environmental regulations, and OSHA standards and emerging issues relevant to our industry. In addition to training, a major media blitz is scheduled to announce the changes and new direction of the company. Employees will be required to adjust to organizational changes during a lengthy transition while keeping up with their current work loads and answering questions from clients that are outside of their comfort zone. Last, many of these employees are expecting layoffs or attempting to take advantage of one of the many advancement opportunities expected to arise.

With so much going on simultaneously, we expect the tension level to be substantial and production levels to be at risk. It is our responsibility to manage change and enable our employees to cope with the changes (Cascio, 2005). Keep in mind that the attitudes your employees bear are contagious and have a direct effect on production levels and ultimately, profitability potential. Answer what you can; encourage training; and make sure to educate your employees as best you can as to the reasons and benefits to the coming changes. Positive encouragement will strengthen our employees’ belief systems which in turn, will help sustain or even improve production levels. The way you manage your employees has a direct effect on their individual success, as well the success of your respective departments as a whole.

Management is also expected to brush up...