Elbers’ explanation is not yet convincing the unions. Although CNV understands the need to intervene, the union calls the plans unjust: according to CNV the heaviest shoulders must also bear the heaviest burdens. FNV demands that there are no forced layoffs.
It is still unclear how the decision was made within KLM. VNC, the cabin crew union, says it will only respond if Elbers has briefed the crew through a video conference.
Communication scientist Van Ruler particularly hopes that KLM executives are well informed in advance about the reorganization plans, in which almost one in seven jobs disappear.
Internal communication is essential
“Even if it is difficult to inform in advance at a listed company,” says Van Ruler. “You just have to take them with you. Such a column by Elbers is good, he cannot absorb the blows internally. The team leaders do that and that is very decisive for how employees deal with this, according to research.
“It is deadly if a supervisor has to answer a question from an employee, ‘I heard it on the radio too.’ Such a reorganization is always bad news. But if you do not support staff in their emotion or do not explain it properly, you’re doing it wrong. “
In practice, this sometimes goes wrong in large companies. “Then it is neglected, because they are more concerned with the image that they radiate outwards,” says Van Ruler.
“You can also see it in the corporate communication departments, which often employ far more employees for external communication than internal communication. While communicating inwards is certainly just as essential during a major reorganization.”
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