GUEST POST by John Howman from Allied Consuting Group
Just about everybody I know has some type of PTSD right now. COVID winds down, and now the war in Ukraine. And you can’t turn on the TV without more news about inflation. I am hearing from my Human Resource clients that employees are very aware that their 3% wage increase is covering about 50% of their expense increases due to inflation and considering changing jobs to get closer to work or looking for enough of an increase to break even.
People are stressed out. It really got me to thinking about the Temptations 1970 hit “Ball of Confusion” (lyrics below). Amazing that 52 years later, the lyrics (for the most part) have captured a lot of what we’re dealing with today.
The lesson?
- We need to be sensitive to the idea that our employees and family members are scared and confused right now. Maybe we should cut them and ourselves some slack.
- Ensure you have a GREAT HR leader in your organization.
- Communicate (in a positive tone) 2-3 times more than normal.
- The more things change, the more they stay the same, AND change.
- Remember that we’ll get through this!
About the Author
As a serial entrepreneur, business and community leader since 1983, John Howman has led a variety of businesses, from technology to consumer products companies. He leads two groups for Vistage, a professional development group for CEOs, presidents and business owners. He can be reached at JHowman@AlliedCG.com