Industry: Banking
Challenge:
Following a banking mega-merger, the bank that was acquired needed to send out a clear and consistent message to their employees worldwide and to minimize fear of job loss and business disruption during reorganization efforts underway.
Overview:
A Fortune 1000 bank brought in The Executive Communicator to improve communications, allay employees’ fears, and build commitment during a time of upheaval that followed a merger. We were first asked to coach a company officer who needed to convey critical messages during several “all-hands” meetings. His talks were presented live and broadcast worldwide to the entire global customer service division. Employees were anticipating layoffs and significant reorganization following the merger. Fear and the rumor-mill were running rampant. Firm leadership needed to convey confident and clear messages and turn around plummeting morale. Following the “all hands” presentation, the bank’s Vice President of Communications wrote, “Working with our executive but a short while, Susan Farwell helped him give a much more dynamic and personable presentation. We were very happy with the results!” and further engaged us to consult on a communications strategy for business process reengineering efforts that followed the merger. The executive also felt confident in our work and asked us to coach his direct reports and help them develop consistent talking points regarding the merger and changes to follow.
Outcome:
The Executive Communicator played an integral role in allaying employee fears during the merger and reorganization and became a trusted partner to the bank. The bank called on The Executive Communicator to work with their executives and employee communication specialists during subsequent mergers and special events. The bank has engaged us to coach and write speeches for a member of the executive branch, consult on two worldwide technology symposiums, and coach vice presidents and investment bankers on presentation, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
Focus Areas:
Communications Coaching, Communications Consulting, Executive Coaching, Change Messaging