Voices of survivors: Words that downsizing CEOs should hear

Abstract

Executive Summary Middle managers play a crucial role in corporate downsizing and restructuring as they evaluate and implement a strategy that is emotionally demanding and non-traditional. They are often ill-prepared to make a full commitment, especially if they are confused about the reasons for the downsizing and their role in its implementation. To “hear” their concerns, we extensively interviewed middle managers from one corporation engaged in a significant downsizing effort. We focus on their emotional responses to the strategy-voices which speak of anger, withdrawal and skepticism. In responding to these voices CEOs face a formidable leadership task. They need to listen carefully in order to hear what middle managers are saying about both the downsizing strategy and their uncertainty about their role in its implementation. Only when the voices of middle managers are heard will such efforts be successful.