The sensation is familiar; the ground beneath your feet shifts when a company decides to shake things up with a reorg. BUT before you start dusting off your resume and scouting for the nearest exit, let’s chat about why hitting the panic button might NOT be your best bet.
Stay Calm, Stay Put:
I’ve seen a lot, from division closures and international transitions to legal sagas that could rival a Netflix series.
And guess what?
Every single time, I’ve emerged with a better position, invaluable organizational insights, increased responsibilities, and resilience that only comes from weathering the storm.
So, why haven’t I ever abandoned ship?
Severance Security:
If I’m getting the boot, you bet your bottom dollar I want that sweet severance package. But if I’m not? Strap in because I’m about to roll up my sleeves and help rebuild this ship after the storm. Reorgs are chaotic and disorienting, but they also create something beautiful out of the chaos.
Now, let’s add a strategic roadmap to our survival kit:
While you may have limited influence over your company’s reorganization, you DO have control over how you respond to it.
Here’s a roadmap to help you steer through the turbulence:
1. Humbly Showcase Your Value:
- Talk to your manager and confidently emphasize the value you bring to the table.
- Inquire if there are any adjustments you could make as a professional to better align with the current changing needs.
- Clarify how your role aligns with the company’s evolving needs and propose proactive ways to contribute.
- By articulating your contributions and dedication, you’ll make it easy for others to advocate on your behalf.
2. Cultivate Your Network:
- Strengthen your internal network by connecting with allies, former managers, and mentors or sponsors.
- Refrain from reaching out to vent or spread fear. Instead, focus on amplifying your contributions.
- The more allies you have within the company, the smoother it is to navigate times of uncertainty.
3. Plan for the Future:
- Scan the current reality of the business, considering both internal and external factors. For example, analyze market trends, financial performance, and internal dynamics.
- Think about the worst- and best-case scenarios and determine how you would handle each one. For instance, consider potential layoffs or promotions, responsibilities shifts, and reporting structure changes.
- Decide if it’s time to update your skills, network outside strategically, or explore alternative career paths.
A reorg can be a crucial inflection point—even if you didn’t realize you were ready for one. As you brace yourself for the choppy waters, remember you have more control than you think.
By strategically navigating the uncertainties and leveraging your strengths, you might emerge from the storm stronger than ever before.
With love,
Mari Carmen
P.S. Improving your ability to persuade effectively is essential, especially when introducing new approaches into your professional life. If you’re ready to boost your impact, grab a copy of the Ultimate Persuasion Blueprint – it’s my free guide designed to help you hone your persuasion tactics and cultivate a smoother work environment.
