The job adjustment experience of survivors of downsizing, a case study in a hospital setting

grantor: University of TorontoThis is a case study of survivors of downsizing in a large rehabilitative Toronto hospital. A single question frames the research, "What is the perceived experience of managers adjusting to survivor status after downsizing and organisational restructuring?" All managers who lived through the experience were invited to participate in the study. Only eight of those were eligible and participated in in-depth interviews several times until saturation was achieved, The findings of the study were formulated into a descriptive narrative that was fed back to participants for their reactions. Participants were re-interviewed to determine how well the description captured the experience and to learn any implications or impacts. A qualitative research approach was chosen. Interview data, documents, and observations were used as sources of information. The investigator developed a framework for the themes that emerged as a basis for understanding what survivors experienced. The results indicate that survivors have a variety of different reactions to the downsizing experience: fear of job loss, physical and health responses, loss and grieving, excitement, guilt, pressure from greater work demands, and loss of confidence in leaders. The study also showed that survivors adjusted primarily through a variety of personal strategies including physical self-care, supporting displaced workers, support from significant others and peers, focus on work challenges, positive self-talk, seeking information from others, focus on external opportunities and professional development. The suggestions for organisations involved in downsizing based on participant responses in this case study are summarised in four overall recommendations: Develop survivor skills and build some excitement for the future. Recognise the work and contribution of those that remain in an organisation. Demonstrate personal integrity and concern for people as key values. Provide job and organisational security to whatever extent is possible.Ed.D