Share the Wealth and Share the Pain

When times are great, people feel that the wealth should be shared. You know, since the company's making a ton of money, why not share it with the "little people?" After all, when the economy is robust, it's almost like there's a bottomless pit of cash laying around. Remember the Lay's Potato Chip commercial--"Don't worry, we'll make more." That's why profit sharing, 401ks, bonuses and stock options were handed out like pamphlets at a Moonie convention.

Now that the economy is so tough, it's imperative that we share the pain. With your suppliers, why not ask for help or concessions? It's better than firing them or bidding them out. With employees, why not have everyone share in the cutbacks as opposed to just one group?

It means something to human beings to contribute, we like that. We'd rather give a concession and feel a part of the team than to be isolated and totally at the mercy of someone else.

Barry LaBov
CEO, LaBov & Beyond Marketing Communications
www.labov.com