Habits of recession-era workers categorized
By KEVIN CONNOR, SUN MEDIA
Nov. 13th, 2009
The Seven Habits of Recession-Era Employees study says on-the-job worker's behaviour during a recession can be grouped into seven categories and each one requires distinct management skills.
"Managers encounter a wider range of on-the-job behaviours than simple economic reasoning predicts. Relying on fear as a management tool is a poor choice during a recession as it is during a boom," said Douglas Reid, an associate professor at Queen's School of Business.
A survey of 250 managers enrolled in programs at Queen's School of Business shows 48% say an increase in employment would be the strongest sign of a recovery and 36% believe their company will be hiring in the next six months.
"Nervous employers want to ensure that the recovery is firmly established before adding to the workforce. But employers also need to recognize that engaged employees will be the core of any organization's renewal efforts," Reid said.
How has the recession affected your view of the workplace?
The Terminated: while not physically present in the organization, their memories linger and affect those that stay.
The Fearful: these employees believe they will be cut next. They are ready to search for a new job but cling tenaciously to whatever certainty their existing situation affords.
The Indifferent: this group is watching the recession occur and believe it is going to affect someone else.
The Delighted: high performers who delight in the improvement in their situation relative to the average consumer via sales and discounts in the marketplace.
The Apocalyptic: a small group that believes that the recession presents a necessary "reset" for a myriad list of failures in the existing system of capitalism.
The Longers: Hoping for a severance package and optimistic they'll obtain rapid alternative employment.
The Engaged: The core of a company's renewal efforts. They understand the consequences of the recession and what needs to be done to help the business recover.
