We are restructuring the business. Help!

Dear Aunty B, 

We have put in place a great new strategy for next year which we are all excited about, but we have just been told we are restructuring the business to deliver the KPIs.

I don’t think the new structure is going to work. I also run a critical department and have just found out that I am no longer reporting to the CEO.

How am I going to get my staff on board with this when I don’t think myself that it is going to work? And what do I do to explain to the CEO that I need to remain reporting to him?

I feel like a shag on a rock because everyone else thinks the restructure is a great move. I love this place and don’t want to leave.

Wrong move,
Victoria

Dear Wrong move,

So your nose is out of joint. Understandable. You feel miffed because you feel your status has been undermined. It happens in restructures. As companies grow, not everyone can report to the CEO.

On the other hand you should be able to express your concerns and offer an alternative. Make sure you go in with an open mind. Ask for an explanation about how the new structure would work. Then be very clear when listing your concerns. Don’t be aggressive and make it clear you are seeking further explanation rather than rejecting the new plan out of hand. You might get a better sense of the big picture doing it this way. And make sure your concerns about changing reporting lines are about the business and not your ego.

Finally, be aware that resisting the change may well have negative repercussions for you. You may be perceived as dead wood, blocking change. If you love your job and you love the place, then approach the future with good will and an open mind.

Good luck!
Your Aunty B

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