In a changing landscape, what will restructuring look like?

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Business is getting back to normal for many of us, with offices beginning to encourage staff back to their desk, if ‘social distancing’ can be upheld. The world of work for many people, however, has changed and some companies are having to rethink their company structures. At any time, company restructures can be challenging – but in the present climate it is even more complicated. Redundancies and job losses cause untold upheaval and can cause stress and uncertainty for employees, who are unsure how the modifications will pan out.

Positive, constructive

It is obviously a difficult period for the whole company, but it can be doubly stressful for the HR professionals. Key members of the team will perhaps have to deal with the angst of employees throughout the organisation, while also having to deal with their own personal uncertainties too. It is worth considering the benefits of outsourcing some elements of the HR function during these transitional periods. By working with a business with a great deal of experience in helping and supporting the HR team during outplacement, managers can provide a strong foundation. In this way, challenges generated by the situation can be addressed in a positive, constructive way.

Professional support

Outplacement professionals can offer vast experience in managing these types of situations, but there are many other benefits to working with a third party too. One of these is the element of distance that your Consultant will have from the emotional turmoil that is potentially impacting on the internal team. Often affected employees find it easier to discuss how they feel and what their next steps might be with a relative stranger, rather than someone they are likely to run into in their everyday workplace or in meetings. Here a bit of distance can actually help find a resolution.

The heart of the process

Without the anchor of usual office life, restructuring has become more complicated, but also considerably more morale-sapping. The uncertainty of the lockdown, the uncertainty of furlough and of how busy businesses will be in the next few months is all uncharted territory. As well as supporting people exiting the business, a Consultant can work closely with the teams remaining to improve morale levels, address development needs and generally help throughout the transitional period. By keeping people at the heart of the process, you have the potential to turn a situation which could be damaging into something positive, both for the people who leave and the ones who remain.  Looking after your workforce in these uncertain times has never been more important.