The HRA Editorial - Dec 2008: HR Amidst the Crisis: Making the Most Out of It

  • 08 Mar 2009 22:41
    Message # 125788
    Jun (Administrator)

    According to Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) some 30,000 non-regular workers have lost or are set to lose their jobs by March next year. Seeing no signs of economic recovery taking place anytime soon, the Ministry said the figure could even rise.

    From an HR manager's perspective, the task of overseeing employees in these trying times can be daunting. Not only do layoffs cause staff reduction, they also threaten projects and diminish organizational morale.

    Here are some ways by which HR managers can pull the company off, if not altogether avoid staff reduction, during the slump.

    1. Non-cash over cash.
    2. Honesty is still the best policy.
    3. Fix the feedback loop.
    4. More work, more play.
    5. Divide and conquer.

    On the other hand, an economic recession can be just as worrisome to an employee as it is for the company. Unfortunately, there is no fixed rule, standard formula, or effective mantra to guard oneself from the danger of losing one's job. Nevertheless, here are some ways an employee may respond to the crisis.

    1. Take extra work. 
    2. Take a pay cut.
    3. Take risks.

    It is said that in trying times, the best way to survive is to remain optimistic and hope that the tides do not swallow us up. Eventually, market forces will fall in place and the economy will stabilize. If we can keep our heads above water until finally the storm calms, the next step is to make the most out of it and most importantly, keep on moving forward. --JK

     

    For a more complete discussion about this issue, download the full white paper here.

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