Dubious Achievements in Employee Communication
We all know that how an organization handles layoffs sends an implicit message to those who remain. But sometimes that message is tough to interpret, as this recent Dave Barry column indicates.
[A] Danville, Va.-based textile company called Dan River...was closing its Sevierville plant and laying off workers. ... According to The Mountain Press, the severance package included a $100 Wal-Mart gift card, a Dan River cap, a calculator, a plaque and "three red-headed Barbie dolls." That's right: THREE Barbie dolls. And all red-headed! ... Incredibly, according to The Mountain Press, some workers were not thrilled with their Barbies. The Mountain Press contacted a human resources official at Dan River headquarters who wouldn't comment on the Barbies but did say "we are doing our best to help the employees" and "we have the best management staff around." No doubt! Probably some of them are M.B.A.s!