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The realistic downsizing preview: a management intervention in the prevention of survivor syndrome (part I)

Steven H. Appelbaum (Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada)
Magda Donia (Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada)

Career Development International

ISSN: 1362-0436

Article publication date: 1 December 2000

4519

Abstract

While downsizing has become an increasingly popular organizational tool in the achievement and/or maintenance of competitiveness and increased productivity, the negative side effect known as survivor syndrome continues to plague many post‐downsizing organizations. This two‐part article examines the full spectrum of research, with the goal of producing a model. The model is based upon the problems survivors experienced and modeled after the John Wanous realistic job preview (RJP). The realistic downsizing preview (RDP), which can be effectively used before the downsizing, is implemented to prevent survivor syndrome in the aftermath of the downsizing. The foundation of the RDP model is that by addressing issues that have been observed as survivor syndromes prior to a downsizing, the negative outcomes can be minimized. Part I considers downsizing, its effects on survivors and their needs, and the importance of good communication and perceived fairness within the process.

Keywords

Citation

Appelbaum, S.H. and Donia, M. (2000), "The realistic downsizing preview: a management intervention in the prevention of survivor syndrome (part I)", Career Development International, Vol. 5 No. 7, pp. 333-350. https://doi.org/10.1108/EUM0000000005384

Publisher

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MCB UP Ltd

Copyright © 2000, MCB UP Limited

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