Here in the valley we definitely see, hear and feel the affects of the economic downturn. We sympathize with all our colleagues who have suffered, and wish them the best as they find their footing during tough times. Overall, it feels like everyone is just a bit more compassionate these days–and although it’s easy to label them as “the bad guys,” even executives are showing sadness for the layoff’s and budget cuts they’ve had to make.
In the past, layoffs came hard and fast, like ripping off a band aid, surprising both the employees and the public at-large. Today, more and more executives are stepping-up and demonstrating corporate transparency as well as humanity, by explaining the details of their company decisions and who they affect. CEO’s are communicating with employees often and early through social media channels like corporate and personal blogs, even Twitter, expressing gratitude for service and compassion for affected employees.
This week The New York Times reported on the upswing in corporate transparency, explaining how executives personally sharing bad news is not only more heartfelt than canned press releases, but also keeps away rumor mongers and controls backlash. In practical terms, speaking out about cuts before the media can weigh in allows a company to simply get in front of what’s obviously a sensitive topic.
Just this Thursday, Zappos CEO, Tony Hsieh tweeted:
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