Restructuring, downsizing, sacking…
04/01/2009
The headlines are full of the number of job losses going on both in the City but also across the country, in every industry. Our thoughts rightly should go out to those losing employment with the inevitable impact on their families, friends, communities.
But also, stop and spare a thought for the poor HR person involved. Often perceived by the employee to be the hatchet man (how many times have I heard of managers saying “HR have told me…..”), loathed my the line manager for making them deliver a message they would rather have nothing to do with (funny how they always want to own the promotions and the salary increased) and battered and bludgeoned by the Unions as being the voice of Management.
My team have been doing this for the last month, dealing with emotional, angry and confused employees. Managing emotional, angry and confused Managers. And in more than one case then going home to a partner who is also being made redundant in their own workplace.
Sure its the job we do and we need to “take the crunchy with the smooth sometimes” But spare a quiet thought……
Union of convenience
03/31/2009
First let me say, I am not a union basher. I believe the organisation of labour is important both morally, philosophically and practically….sometimes you need a helping hand to manage those precious little babies!
The one thing that has struck me over the last few years is how the Unions have become less driven by the needs of their members and more driven by internal targets and political goals. On two occasions over the last few weeks I have been told by senior officials “its a policy that we need to target xxxx”.
Maybe its me, but if I was a member I’d be asking some questions about whose interests are being served, about accountability and about transparency.
Blimey, are the unions the new banks????
From small beginnings
03/31/2009
I have spent the last 15 years of my life dealing with people. The good ones, the bad ones, the shiny happy ones and the pathologically bad ones. Welcome to the world of an HR professional.
My Hell is Other People 