Human Resource Management in Times of Crisis
We next three tips related to human resource management in times of crisis.
1. Avoid downsizing
The staff reduction is usually the first thing companies do to address the crisis; however, this measure should be the last to take.
Reducing workers can be a short term solution, but ultimately ends up affecting business productivity and generating a large cost due to the search, selection and training of new staff have to hire once the situation improved.
Before downsizing, it is advisable to take other measures such as, for example, reducing hours of work, reduced working hours, lower wages, reduce production costs, reduce administrative costs, and even business opportunities that can be present as a result of the crisis.
2. Communication-based Leadership
In times of crisis where they must improve leadership skills.
Through good leadership should be kept motivated workers, to avoid potential problems or disputes that may arise, and especially to maintain good communication with them.
Must be maintained constant communication with the workers, thereby avoiding the uncertainty and rumors or speculation that may arise, and capable of generating an unfavorable work environment and therefore a decrease in productivity.
Communication should be formal, preferably given by the heads or supervisors, who should inform their subordinates everything I can help you maintain a good working environment, and resolving any questions that may arise in the workers.
3. Honest with workers
Good communication involves being honest with employees and inform them how the crisis is affecting the company.
The workers know that the crisis affects everyone, and if we deny that affects us also, create doubt, which will lead to uncertainty, which leads to a fear of a possible dismissal, and finally to an already tense atmosphere a decrease in productivity. Only honest with workers, we can create a better working environment.
If it is necessary to reduce work hours or wages, the worker must inform the reasons for this, and try to reach some agreement with him. We do understand that the measures taken will be a way out of the crisis, and bear in mind that many workers will be willing to make some concessions in order not to lose their jobs.
In the event of downsizing, we must also communicate the reasons for this, both workers to be disengaged and those who will still be with us. In the latter we must inform you that the company was forced to take the decision to reduce certain staff, but still asking for the cooperation of everyone else. It’s only the way to avoid suspicions or rumors leading to a tense atmosphere that could affect business productivity.