Tips to Handle a Dilbert Principle Management Change at Work

The last ten years of my work career at the Boeing Company provided many experiences enduring shifts in management brought on by downsizing, synergizing, merging, outsourcing and all the other delights that are joked about in the "Dilbert Principle" by Scott Adams. The key to surviving one is to have a good retention code, if at all possible, produced by a good work history. Whether you go or stay, everyone is affected and it is likely to be annoying at a minimum.

Tip #1 Don't Burn Your Bridges or Grouse During Changes in Management at Work

If you are one of the people downsized or laid off, don't burn your bridges by negativism. Other company's managers watch how you handle loss and will believe that you will treat them in a similar fashion. Negativism tends to spread.

Tip# 2 Keep an Up to Date Resume at All Times and During Changes in Management at Work

Your resume along with your performance reviews help document your capabilities and ability to succeed. Be prepared to move on if needed. Read Get the Interview and the Job with Specific Technical Skills and Responsibilities on Your Resume for suggestions on how to write a good resume especially if you have a technical background.

Tip# 3 Keep Contact with Your Friends at All Times and During Changes in Management at Work

Many of your friends are your best sources for advice and job leads. Social Media sites like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Zorpia, and Netlog can help ease any transitions and provide an easy way to connect to others. Many jobs can be found through online listings.

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Tip #4 Align Your Work with Management Initiatives During Changes in Management at Work

Management often describes the reason for the change. Sometimes it means a new direction; if so, align your responsibilities and efforts in line with what management is planning to accomplish. Ignore all the hype and buzzwords that go along with the change, instead focus on what they want to do.

Tip #5 Phrase Your Doubts as Questions instead of Negative Judgments during Changes in Management at Work

I sat with two men who had retention levels that meant they would lose their jobs in the next cut. The two sat and told me endless negative stories about the new manager, who happened to walk the floor nights and often listen in. If you are in the situation of listening to angst, make sure that your own statements sound positive. Don't believe that management doesn't hear what you say. In meetings where your opinion is asked about changes, if you have bad feelings, voice your worries in the form of questions.

Tip #6 Keep Your Sense of Humor during Changes in Management at Work

Reading the Dilbert Principle by Scott Adams can let you know that you are not the only one that has suffered through big changes. Cartoons can help you see the lighter side of every situation and allow you to maintain your flexibility. Often the hype and buzz that goes with a change is quite humorous in the attempt to hide the well-known reality.

Tip #7 Don't Jump the Gun and Leave Just Because of a Change in Management

Management change often happens in business. Being able to adapt to the changes is much better than immediately leaving. Many people that hang in with a new manager that brings change will benefit in the long run, since people that leave often leave their raises and promotions behind for a year and must deal with new friends, co-workers, commute etc. whereas those that stay often are awarded for their loyalty.