The Talk Vs. Walk Gap

“Our people are our most important resource,” is something many organizations boast and yet many people within those organizations do not feel like an important resource. This unprecedented event is one which will tell your people a great deal about the priority they are in your organization. The term “talk the talk” and “walk the talk” means you should support your words with your behaviors. When there is a disconnect between what you say and what you do, people will believe your behaviors over your words 100% of the time. So, what does it mean to walk the talk in incredibly difficult times like these when difficult decisions need to be made? Once again it boils down to how it is handled.

A difficult and often heart-wrenching decision for leaders is often a necessity. When determining whether to furlough or lay off employees, understand everyone at your company is impacted whether they are let go or not. Try to create a plan that strives to make the smallest disruption to the organization while still meeting the ability to serve your customers. Your people need to feel they matter and are not just being discarded. Although employees often are expecting a cutback, there are probably questions about how decisions are being made. Although it may be obvious, leaders need to communicate that this is not the fault of the employee. Let your people know that all options have been explored and there is no alternative at this time. If this is temporary, communicate that clearly to your people. Be very transparent on the effect on their benefits as well as communication following their layoff or furlough. Offer support through an EAP, if available. If they currently interact with clients make sure you let them know this is not authorized during the furlough or lay off. Effective communication helps everyone be clear about expectations. Be empathetic and offer support to your people and speak directly to them rather than through a generic message sent to everyone. Taking time to plan will dramatically improve the effect this has on those let go, your culture, and remaining employees.