An Exploratory Study of Downsized Survivors' Work Behaviour

Abstract

Downsizing is ideally aimed at reducing manpower and increasing profitability. But if the survivors' work behaviours are ignored, the very purpose of downsizing could be defeated. Thus, the current study intends to understand the impact of downsizing on the perception of survivors and the extent of different coping strategies used by them. A sample comprising of 68 managers was taken into account for the purpose of the study. The findings revealed that managers with more work experience and higher designation differed significantly from those with less work experience and lower designation in their perception of the downsizing scenario. Keeping in mind the scenario, the former appraised communication, perception of fairness, participation in decision making, team spirit and attitude more favorably than the latter. In terms of their coping strategies, the managers with more work experience resorted to more of problem-focused coping strategies and least avoidance/resignation coping strategies. The senior level managers also differed significantly from the junior level and resorted more to help seeking coping strategy.