4 Tips for Surviving a Company Merger

As the economy continues to recover, there’s been a recent uptick in the number of mergers. And while merging with another business might be good for a company’s bottom line, it can be stressful for its employees. Job loss and uncertainty are big concerns among workers.

So if your company is undergoing a merger with another, or there is a merger on the horizon, what can you do to ensure you not only survive, but thrive, in your Houston job? Here are 4 tips:

1) Expect a cultural change.

Two separate cultures can’t exist together, so expect the dominant company’s way of doing business to prevail. Don’t resist it; accept it and adapt to it.

2) Get to know the new owner and managers.

After a merger, it can be tempting to keep your head down and try not to be noticed. But most new owners are looking for people to step up to the plate. First, learn all you can about the new owner and managers. Then reach out to them via email or by making a phone call. Tell them what your department is doing, highlight your responsibilities, and offer suggestions for improvement within your department or the company as a whole.

3) Do a great job.

This is the time to go above and beyond. You want the new owner and managers to think they simply cannot live without you. So come in early, stay late, and offer to take on additional assignments. Ask the new owner or managers: “What can I do to make this transition easier for you?” Even if they tell you to “keep doing what you’re doing,” the perception will be that you’re an asset, not an obstacle.

4) Be positive.

It can be easy to feel defensive and stressed during a merger. But keep your attitude to yourself. Attend any informational meetings the new owner or managers hold, ask intelligent questions, and introduce yourself to new managers and staff members. You want to be perceived as a team player; not a complainer.

When it comes to a merger, you have to come to terms that things just aren’t going to be the same. But the faster you “get it” and adapt, the better your chances will be for surviving a merger. That said, it’s always smart to prepare a contingency plan. So dust off your resume and begin to rework it, just in case.

Also, if you’re interested in learning about job opportunities in the Houston market, please contact Murray Resources. As an employment agency in Houston, we work with many of the top employers and can give you access to new opportunities in your field.