Over a Zoom Call, Really?!#@!

We just saw a recent case where a CEO laid off 900 employees on a zoom call. Whatever other better method we could think of, there are some lessons to be learned here. And of those lessons, some could argue that some are more important to study than others. That said, I think one (of many) things to consider looking at is the lasting impact on all the staff that did not get fired.

Here are 10 serious considerations (when we look at their perspective) now that their colleagues have been run out in this fashion.

1. Most will now wonder when it will be their time to get a “Zoom Call Pink Slip.” This will then negatively impact:

· productivity

· morale

· trust

· respect levels to management and leadership

· wellness and stress levels

· desire to stay loyal to the company (i.e. increased voluntary turnover)

· theft rates (yes, people will not feel about stealing TIME)

2. All zoom calls will now be a little suspect and unnecessarily heighten stress levels on the regular

3. For an employee this is considered, “writing on the wall” – anticipate people looking for new jobs, even those who have no reason to leave

4. This will model behavior for other leaders who may also choose negative interpersonal solutions

5. Conflict levels on all things will be at a more heightened state

6. Increased negative “water cooler conversations” and office gossip

7. Lack of passion or extra-effort…professionals more likely to go coach a team vs. stay late at the office

8. People vocalizing other professional’s short-comings or issues in the office….OR…the opposite…everyone clams up and says nothing

9. Negative impact on people’s family…this kind of stress can impact far more than work life

10.Tensions between different departments or silos may begin to surface

A mass firing of professionals is not the way to go, no matter what the variables are. In this case we can learn so much, as someone once told me…”nothing is a waste, it can always be used as a bad example.”

To life, learning and supporting one another!

Much love,

Dave