First appeared in The Baptist paper newspaper, January 12, 2023 issue. Used with Permission.
Anytime the economy is struggling, or during inflationary times, it’s perfectly normal for leaders to look at downsizing their organizations.
Right now we’re seeing massive layoffs in the tech sector, at entertainment companies in Hollywood, and major retailers. So it’s not a surprise that many pastors, ministry, and nonprofit leaders naturally think this is a good time to cut back on their church or ministry staff members.
But before you reflexively let people go to help save money or weather the crisis, here’s three important thoughts to consider:
Obviously, if you have under-performing employees who are hurting the organization then a crisis might be a good time to make those changes. I’m a big believer that leaders need to vigilant about failing employees. But with a good team that may be difficult to replace, I suggest you explore every possible alternative to keep from decimating the staff.
Recently, the Wall Street Journal reported that “If you look at the science over the last few decades on downsizing, you look at thousands of firms that downsized, you compare them to peer firms that chose different ways of managing costs, like for example taking pay cuts, and the researchers conclude that downsizing is, quote, ‘dumb and dumber.’ It predicts consistent and significant decreases in profits, return on assets.”
I’ve seen churches and ministry organizations who cut too quickly and too close to the bone, and it took years and sometimes decades to correct the mistake — long after the crisis was over.
Don’t make that mistake.
Use a crisis to rethink priorities, strategy and planning, but don’t be too quick to cut the people who have made you successful in the first place.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Phil Cooke, a writer, television producer and media consultant, and originally published at philcooke.com. Published with permission.