It is always personal

It is commonly accepted in the larger business world today to make decisions that are in the best interest of the business.  In the end, people will make the argument that the business only exists for itself and sometimes tough decisions need to be made.

Over my 20 year career, I have seen multiple rounds of "layoffs" within small, privately held companies, and within larger, publicly traded enterprises.  Even though one is more subject to the constant vibrations and emotions of Wall Street, both have goals to achieve and when they don't hit them, they look to cut costs (ie. people).

I remember a time when a pastor friend of mine talked about how the recession hit their church, and in a devastating way.  They not only lost frequent attenders, they had significant losses in the amount being given each weekend.  Eventually, the money was so tight that cuts had to be made, or they would no longer be able to survive as a church.  I am sure you have heard many business stories that are the same, whether in a small or large organization. 

The thought process to walk through to be a great leader is that you have a responsibility to those you shepherd.  You have a duty to those that are ultimately left in your care.  Therefore, I reject, and ask you to do the same, the phrase "it's not personal, it's just business."  See, for the people being let go, this is very personal.

The drive for wealth and hitting objectives sometimes has us lose sight of the fact that people's lives are directly impacted by those decisions.  I recognize that, and have spoken to the fact, that objectives need to be hit, profit needs to be made, and growth is a must.  Cutting people, though, isn't simply just business, it is personal to that individual.

I was let go from a position at a time in my life where my wife was dying from cancer.  We had two young boys at home and losing my job meant a loss of income and insurance.  The process was personal for me and my wife.  I have, unfortunately, let many people go over the years as well.  It isn't any fun on either side, yet I promise you that walking away without a job is painful.  Knowing that the company you worked with for years will go forward without you, is tough.  Knowing that you were cut to save money, and save others' jobs, is not always easy to take, personally.

Just remember, that when you make "business" decisions, the impact is personal.

Here are five quick tips to carrying out the business task, yet doing so that keeps the person in mind.

1. Have empathy for how they will feel and the impact this has on their lives
2. Speak to them, in tone and in words, as you would want to be spoken to
3. I know this will make HR folks shiver, yet you need to spend ample time with them, help them know you care, how hard it is, for you to do this, and that you wish them well...don't rush them out the door
4. Don't speak about other people, or other companies, or the economy, give them straight facts as to what the organization is doing and why
5. Look them in the eye, shake their hand, and thank them for what they did for you, they deserve to leave with integrity