How should uncertainty be handled in the face of a downsizing?

Staff cuts are a problem that in the context of the covid-19 pandemic has become more noticeable and normally generates stress, anxiety and fear among collaborators. So far in 2022, various traditional companies and startups have been forced to resort to massive layoffs as a way to face the global crisis in the technology and financial sector, profitability, cash flow and persistence in the shortage of supplies. raw materials and supplies.

How should uncertainty be handled in the face of a downsizing

According to the ILO World Social and Unemployment Outlook 2022 report, it is expected that this year there will be 28.8 million unemployed in Latin America and 27.6 million in 2023. Likewise, ANDI conducted the Survey of Industrial Opinion, in which it was shown that 3.5% of companies will cut their payrolls in the midst of uncertainty with the economy and the global situation, despite the fact that in countries like ours there has been an economic reactivation in a way gradual.

Here are some recommendations that you should take into account as a collaborator and that Momentu, a platform focused on the emotional and mental well-being of collaborators in Latin America, affirms, contributes to there being no uncertainty at the time of a personnel cut:

1. Engage in direct and assertive communication:

It is advisable to speak openly with collaborators about what has happened, explain the reasons for such a difficult decision and communicate what the current challenges of the business are in order to establish a closer bond and be able to express what is behind a cut in personnel.

2. Train company leaders:

It is necessary to train leaders in emotional intelligence, conscious leadership and assertive communication so that they can motivate and guide their teams and increase their work fulfillment, productivity and commitment.

3. Avoid saturating the team with tasks:

Anxiety and stress are also generated due to the assignment of new functions that comes after a reduction in personnel. It is known that the tasks must be distributed, but this does not mean that people have to overload themselves. 

4. Develop a mental health and emotional wellness plan:

According to the situation and size of the company, the needs and possibilities of providing therapy sessions, coaching and group meditation and yoga classes must be analyzed so that employees can increase their emotional well-being and mental health in the work and personal aspects.

It should be noted that a downsizing is a moment that poses a challenge for those who are part of a company and eradicating its consequences not only benefits employees but also startups.