Call to the public sector

Just be honest with yourselves – you know now where many of the cuts can go!

Nobody could argue that the public sector change movement is now hot news and gaining momentum every ticking minute of every day!

Our daily tabloids are crammed full of stories and sound bites of individuals affected by the cuts, families distressed at losing services, and MPs in opposition being stripped of their legacy without any emotion whatsoever. Even my Accountant has reminded me recently that it’s no good just talking about public sector cuts – the indirect affect in the private sector will be colossal.

But with just under 30 years experience of working across the public sector both as an employee and an external resource, I offer the following fundamental observations that I’m sure will ring true for many working in the public sector:

• There will be those staff who just want to leave the organisation and head off into new directions or simply wander around the wilderness aimlessly. They will see this as a time for celebration and gaiety!

Let them go where you can as they will drain those around them who do not share their enthusiasm for unemployment.

• If you’re honest with yourself, you already know where the slack is in the system – or someone close to you will! This is a one off opportunity to remove it so make the most of it. Let’s face it, there will be far less scrutiny on this revolution of management cost reductions!

• You will find it emotionally challenging but focus on the core of what you do and withdraw from activities that are senseless and have no currency in the new world.

Everyone will have a story of pointless activities and services that can be shed. Have the courage to point them out and the conviction to stand by your decisions.

Oh and by the way, I’m not oblivious to my Accountant’s advice! But that does not stop me from believing in what I feel organisations should be doing right now.