What overriding message about employee engagement and communication did you take away from the “Unprecedented times” survey findings?
Debbie Slappey: We’ve seen a shift in employee concerns since last fall,when the downturn began. When we first surveyed employers globally in November, the market had just plummeted and employees were most concerned about their retirement investments. When we surveyed again in May, employees’ concerns were more focused on job security and the stability of their organizations. Now they are asking, “Will I have a job?” and “Where do I fit in going forward?” The survey findings certainly bear out what we are seeing as we work with organizations. Employees are under stress – even the best performers. In fact, I have never seen so many people, collectively and individually,with their confidence so shaken. In this unstable environment, people are searching for ways to add value to their organizations. But they’re also thinking about the relationship with their employers and the new value package they receive for their efforts, which may have changed as organizations have adjusted pay, benefi
