The recession has been an education. It showed us many things, the most significant being that every employee must be a value-builder, a team player and a customer connector, or they are not needed. There are no longer any rights of employment. Today, an employee must earn the right to be on the team – and that comes from the way they add value.
So I thought this week, I would help managers communicate this message to their employees. Here is a draft letter; consider editing and using this with your employees:
Dear employee,
We have been through some very tough times lately; this recession has taught us many things. We have learned to better watch our world and respond in a more value-building way. We have learned to better listen to our customers and refocus on loyalty, not satisfaction. We have learned that every employee must contribute in a significant way, or they do not have a place on our team.
The recession has ushered in a new workplace – the rules of the workplace have changed. We have had to learn to do more with less. We now rely very significantly on every employee to add real value. This is how you earn your place on our team – you add and build value. There are no more entitlements. No more just showing up or doing the job as it has always been done. To be on this team, you must come to work each day ready to make the greatest difference you can. You must think, invent and respond. You must own your performance. You must earn your place.
We are committed to helping you achieve greatness here. We will coach you, give you the skills you need and look to activate your passion for your work. In exchange we require you to make a significant difference each day.
The rules have changed. Show up, step up and stand out. This is what it takes to be on this team.
Your manager
Times have changed. There is no right to a job. Employees earn their place by adding value. Be sure they know this. Help them achieve this. This will influence your success.
Please forward this to someone who will benefit form it and contact me to help your employees earn their place on your team.
