GUIDE: How to keep talents engaged during crisis

GUIDE

How to keep talents engaged in crisis situations

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START WITH A COMMUNICATION PLAN
Start off by developing a clear and comprehensive communication plan . Devoting enough resources and time for this phase is crucial . Set out a clear vision , strategy and direction . It is important to set the focus on the future and not to look back on mistakes from the past . Define a plan which includes WHO communicates WHAT to WHOM , WHEN and HOW . Focus on the remaining employees and the talents the organization wants to keep .
CAREFULLY PLAN THE ANNOUNCEMENT
Prepare a clear and convincing story for employees and the public . This includes the preparation of the announcement days , press releases , e-mail to employees , organization town hall meetings , departmental / team meetings , security concept , briefing documents for the leadership team or service center units , FAQs , specific intranet section etc . Early identification and addressing of potential leakage risks is beneficial for the whole success .
PROVIDE MULTIPLE TRAININGS
Provide specific trainings and communications guidelines to the top leadership team , middle managers , employees and employee representatives . Let leaders know what communication do ’ s and don ’ ts are and sensitize them towards possible reactions of employees . Ensure leaders speak with one voice when talking to employees and communicating the news . Supporting employees and especially the best talents to adapt to the new situation is a crucial step in retaining them .
PROPERLY MANAGE ANNOUCEMENT DAYS
Ensure that employees receive the news directly from the CEO / top management and not from the press . Therefore , adequate timing of the press release and the e-mail to the staff is essential . Invite employees to townhall meetings to communicate the news to them in person and try to answer questions . This helps to ensure that you are “ in the driver seat ” of the communication .
MANAGE ALL STAKEHOLDERS
Identify the top 10 + stakeholders of the organization – it might be certain bodies of the regional or national government , the mayor , suppliers , clients , partners etc . Define the appropriate communication channel – it might be in person , a call or via e-mail . It is necessary that they receive the news from the management and not out of the press . Understand possible implications resulting from the restructuring and communicate these risks appropriately . Ensure to keep all stakeholders engaged – before , during and after the restructuring .
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