Redundancies can deeply affect those left in the workplace, saysMegan Alexander
As the financial crisis has deepened, much time has been given to advising newly redundant workers on how to pick themselves up, dust themselves off and start job-hunting again.
But little has been said about the other group of employees profoundly affected by redundancies at any workplace - those left behind.
In some ways, these "redundancy survivors" are the lucky ones, after all, they still have a job and an income to pay their bills with. But they are probably also reeling from the shock - especially if the redundancies have cut deeply - and are having to manage heavier workloads and stay motivated while worrying that their roles could be eliminated next.
It's natural for people to have mixed feelings about keeping their jobs when co-workers have been let go. Redundancy survivors often experience guilt about being the ones who stay - especially if close friends were among those let go - while also working in an environment marked by uncertainty.
When coming to grips with this changed environment, don't try to pretend it's business as usual -it's not. If the redundancies have been widespread, it is unlikely those left behind will be able to achieve everything that was done before, so this is a time to work closely with your manager to ensure your workload reflects company priorities. Managers will need to decide what tasks are still essential, and what can be put on the back burner until conditions improve and staffing levels return to normal.
It's also important to try to stay positive. This can be challenging but the more you can do to lift the collective spirit, the better off you will be.
There are several things you can do to remain positive, avoid survivor guilt and lessen the anxiety that your job will be next.
1. Make yourself indispensable.
Focus your efforts on projects that help boost your firm's bottom line. If you can, take courses to learn skills that allow you to contribute in new ways. Identify a gap left in the company skill base and consider how you could become the "go to person" - someone others come to for help on this issue.
2. Build visibility.
In uncertain times, it's important to be noticed for the right reasons. Volunteer for projects that no one wants to tackle or that fall outside your job description. Also provide periodic reports updating your supervisor on your achievements.
3. Adapt to change.
Managers appreciate employees who can roll with the punches and maintain productivity when faced with adversity. Demonstrate your ability to stay positive, motivated and focused on doing good work.
4. Conduct an audit.
Now is the time to be nimble. Evaluate current processes and offer suggestions for cutting costs or saving your company time or resources.
5. Avoid the rumour mill.
While increased chatter is inevitable after redundancies, avoid contributing to the gossip. Also, don't believe everything you hear - if you have questions about your company's direction, ask your manager. He or she may not have all the answers, but equally may be able to set your mind at rest.
6. Be generous with praise.
After downsizing, employees may begin to doubt their abilities and question their own future with the company. If you are a manager, you may not be able to make promises of job security, but you can give direct reports positive feedback on their performance in challenging times.
7. Reach out.
It's okay to stay in contact with colleagues who have been made redundant - indeed, it's important to maintain your friendships and work colleagues frequently form a large part of any social network. Offer assistance to those who have experienced a job loss by introducing them to your professional network and helping them with their job search - not only does it help them, but it makes you feel as if you are doing something worthwhile.
8. Look out for yourself.
Redundancy survivors often experience increased workloads, which can lead to burnout. Talk to your manager about setting priorities, delegating projects or bringing in temporary professionals.
To stay sane and productive during tough times it's important to be aware of the realities of your organisation.
If you think your job might be in jeopardy, focus on reactivating your professional networks, take stock of your skills and accomplishments, and put together a strong CV so you are prepared for any event.
And no matter what happens, continue to take care of yourself - don't sacrifice important family or leisure time, talk to others about how you're feeling, and keep your life as balanced as possible. Businesses need alert, focused staff to help them through a recession. Make sure you're one of them.
Megan Alexander is a senior manager at recruitment firm Robert Half International
