Keeping Information Confidential
...stance violate that trust. The organization would have to change it stance of how they want the potential layoffs to be communicated. More and more companies are discovering that their employees are their most valuable asset. Because of this discovery, organizations have adopted open communication policies with their employees. With layoffs looming communication seems to be the key. Even if a company can't avoid layoffs or other cost-cutting moves, the manner in which such steps are taken can have a huge impact on employee commitment and a company's subsequent performance. Psychological research on negative events and case studies of troubled companies suggest four basic management guidelines that matter most (Robert Sutton, 2003) „X Prediction. Be sure to give employees as much information as possible. Even general information is better than no information. For example, "we can't promise you that no layoffs will happen, but we promise that none will happen in the next 60 days." „X Understanding. Give people detailed information about why actions, especially those that could upset and harm them, had to be taken. „X Control. Give them the chance to make as many decisions as possible about the way things happen to them, even though they might not be able to influence what ultimately occurs. „X Compassion. Convey concern for the emotional distress and financial burdens that laid- off workers face. Resolving conflicts Organizational code of conduct and Suggestions There are a few professions in which information is considered protected privileged information these professions would include lawyers, doctors and to some degree accountants. Leaking information in one of these professions would constitute malpractice and can result in lawsuits, lose of practicing licenses or other unfavorable actions. Doctor patient confidentiality and attorney client confidentiality are examples where exchanges of information are considered protected and would require court orders to break such confidentiality. Although it may not be the norm for other professions to follow such stringent rules about safeguarding information, there should be standards set forth by an organization to ensure integrity of privileged information is not tarnished. There is bound to be conflicts of interests between personal interests of individuals and interests of the organization or management. A code of conduction should be created in an attempt to provide guidance to individuals placed in a position of ethical quagmire. Once a code of conduct is established, the organization is expected to comply with both the letter and spirit of all applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations. If the organization fails to comply with the prescribed codes or with any applicable laws, individuals may be subject to disciplinary measures which can include immediate discharge from the Company. Communication should be encouraged within an organization, but when the information is in regards to management dec...