MY TEAM RECENTLY lost two major accounts through no fault of our own. However, management is blaming us and heads may roll. Resources have been cut, but we are expected to win new accounts, and there is a rumour the division will be closed if we cannot achieve higher profits. My team is finding it difficult to stay motivated, so how can I help them through this crisis?
Sometimes, bad things happen to good people, particularly in the business world where nothing can be taken for granted. It is important to accept this fact and find ways to move on, rather then dwelling too much on what has happened.
You cannot force your team members to accept the situation or instruct them to be more motivated, but you can create an environment in which they look at things more constructively and are willing to explore practical solutions.
It is useful to start by dealing with the emotional fallout from the crisis. Those affected are likely to be feeling resentful, bewildered or angry. They will benefit from the opportunity to vent these emotions and from knowing that their concerns have been heard.
Therefore, call a meeting to discuss the situation. Do not side with management or try to blame your staff. Instead, ask them to examine in detail what went wrong and why. By being supportive and listening, you will enable them to express their frustration and move towards acceptance.
When specific opinions are voiced, note them down on a flip chart or whiteboard. If people find it difficult to say certain things openly, ask everyone to write their comments anonymously on a slip of paper, which only you will read. Compile a list of the issues raised and then ask the team to evaluate them in terms of impact and priority. Some views or worries may be based on inaccurate or distorted facts, so take the opportunity to correct errors and fill in gaps in knowledge.
It often helps to ask staff to consider the consequences of not responding to new challenges. These could include restructuring, pay cuts, or the failure to meet personal career goals. In doing this, you should emphasise that change is now a constant in the face of evolving market needs.