Showing It Cares

BACKGROUND: Healthcare IT solutions provider Anthelio (now part of Atos) had to shut down its medical account receivable division, affecting 100-plus employees.

WHAT WAS DONE RIGHT: In the monthly open house, the CEO had reviewed the business, including renewals and new projects, in front of all employees. Therefore, the employees knew all about the key client and its stability from the beginning. When the client pulled off, the CEO explained in great detail why the business unit should be closed, thus bringing down uncertainties and stress levels. Plus, there was always an assurance that the company would take care of its employees.

Final settlements and paperwork were also done in advance to make sure that the people affected would get their settlement money on the spot. A career room was created for those who wanted to discuss future career options or required help with their CVs. A panel was formed to listen to everyone so that they can share their feelings. Anthelio also invited five of its top competitors to recruit its former employees and arranged the interviews. Around 60 per cent of the people had another job the next day; another 20 per cent wanted to study further, and the remaining 20 per cent decided not to take a call just then.

TAKEAWAY: HR often makes the mistake of keeping things under wraps until the last moment. Give employees a heads-up so that they can prepare themselves. People hate shocks. So, communicate the next steps and take the entire organisation through the process. It will bring down the turmoil. Also, employees are brand ambassadors of the company, and the company wanted to leverage this to create something meaningful from a negative exercise. When the company restarted the unit after a year and a half, a lot of people who were laid off wanted to come back because of their experience.