Renault law and communication : a blessing in disguise?
The announcement of an intention to restructure is a difficult time for every company or organisation. The preparation for such an announcement is very often essential and the will of an open and transparent communication is indispensable for the process that follows this announcement.
The Renault law, applicable to mass redundancies or closures, is very clear: no employer can announce a decision of mass redundancy or closure, he has to announce an intention to mass redundancy.
In what way can a communication consultancy help companies during such processes ?
First of all, the communication consultancy will help the managers of the company to prepare the announcement of the strategic choice proposed by the company to stay the course and keep some economic health. We are here to develop arguments explaining to all stakeholders (intern and extern) the reasons of this new strategy, the changes it implies, the prospects for the future, etc. As an extern part of the organisation, we will be the first to assess the relevance and the credibility of the message. We have indeed the necessary detachment to assess objectively the message.
Secondly, it is often forgotten during reorganisations to talk about the future. But after this difficult time, the company still exists and employs members, whose trust in the management cannot be shaken by such an announcement.
At the time of the announcement, the company must therefore think of its strategy, of the people concerned by the announcement and of those who stay. The employer cannot forget that he has the right to communicate, and even the duty to do so! Some organisations are overwhelmed by the trade unions because the enterprise culture is done this way. But in crisis communication, it is essential to stay in control.
Conclusion : you have to communicate yourself and do it well ! The preparation is the key to success during the announcement of these difficult messages.
Nathalie Van Laeken