When one organisation takes over another, employees are not wrong in feeling insecure about their future. Anjali Venugopalan gets you tips from experts on how to adapt to a merger or acquisition of your company.
1. Don’t panic
“Many employees may feel tempted to immediately jump ship upon learning that their company has been acquired or is about to be acquired,” says Sonica Aron, managing partner, Marching Sheep. They most often fear loss of employment or that their role might get diminished. While these are legitimate fears, employees should continue working as before. However, they must speak to their immediate manager as well as human resource department for clarifications about their future in the company.
2. Showcase your capabilities
It can be hard to sustain in an acquired organisation if you don’t stand out, says Suchita Dutta, executive director, Indian Staffing Federation. Your contributions need to be noteworthy and you need to know how to stand out. Some organisations recognise performers without them having to trumpet it, but that may not be the case in your new organisation and that’s why you need to communicate your worth clearly.
3. Be adaptable
After a takeover, an employee should highlight his or her adaptability and willingness to be a positive contributor, says Aron. The best way to do so is by investing time and effort to learn new things and by upskilling. Take the initiative and participate in process improvements and developmental projects where possible. You won’t necessarily have the same role, and your new role might depend entirely on the skills you have, says Dutta.
4. Team leaders must take charge
Team leaders bear special responsibility after a takeover, says Aron. They must reassure their teams which can best be done by being as transparent and communicative as possible. Leaders should help their teams remain immersed in development projects and ensure the environment remains positive and focused on producing outstanding results.
5. In the case of layoffs, be proactive
If retrenchment is unavoidable, leaders should work with HR to help team members find another job and receive a fair severance package, says Aron. While no one likes the prospect of being out of job, this might be the opportunity for you to move onto something bigger and better.
