EN 
DE Of victims and perpetrators
Jobs and education, along with tax cuts, rank high on the list of our politicians' campaign promises. But I'm more inclined to believe in the combined efforts of Santa Claus, Father Christmas, and the Easter Bunny than in the fact that these promises will actually be followed by actions that amount to more than a drop in the ocean. I think personal initiative is needed.
Facts: In recent months, unsurprisingly, I have increasingly come into contact with people who, if they were lucky, ended up in a job creation scheme, or, if they were unlucky, on the street. These were highly qualified specialists from industry who, through no fault of their own, were caught in the maelstrom of the economic crisis or fell victim to the pursuit of synergy.
There are so many wonderful terms used to describe job cuts: synergy, performance improvement, streamlining, focus on core business, etc. I could now join in the general lamenting and complaining about the depraved customs and lack of morals in management, but I'm going to really go after those who don't want to fight back: the victims.
The role of victim has its advantages. Victims can relinquish responsibility and action to others, such as politicians, unions, or government agencies. They can demand compensation for the injustice done to them and feel like moral victors. How convenient! It's also convenient for the perpetrators, among whom I'm including myself with this column. Victims don't fight back; otherwise, they'd be abandoning their role. That's what I call synergy.
You are not made a victim; you make yourself one. For example, when you relinquish responsibility for job security and professional development to others—the HR department, your boss, the employment agency, or the job center. "We spent years developing with outdated technology, and now no one wants to hire us," was the lament of some of our course participants, who are now desperately trying to find their way from the employment agency to a new job. There was either no time or no money available for further training. When companies see time and money spent on professional development as a sacrifice, they and their employees become victims themselves. Where knowledge is neglected, jobs can soon be eliminated. But those who invest time and money in knowledge also gain self-confidence. Those who are willing to fight for their right to education and training are also more likely to champion quality and innovation.
The willingness to develop employees is a good indicator of the potential companies see in their staff. Employees' determination to demand development reflects personal responsibility, a proactive approach, and a drive for innovation. As is so often the case, it's not the measure itself but the attitude that motivates it that is crucial for success. My observations in the field of professional development show that cutting back on training is the beginning of the end for many companies.
It only appears that we are dealing with the famous chicken-and-egg problem, because the sequence of ignorance, incompetence, and insolvency is clear. Often, the problem begins with the misguided belief that one can reap without sowing, coupled with employees' lack of courage to fight for their professional development. Here, to paraphrase an old proverb: Learn in good times, so you have it in times of need.
In times of crisis, things become even more difficult, or it's quickly too late. No! It's never too late to learn and find creative ways to do so. Further training during reduced working hours is extremely cost-effective. In times of crisis, it's easy to negotiate with training providers. Why not invest your own money in further training?
How about sacrificing some of your vacation time for further education? Oh, excuse me, I meant INVESTING. I know that might seem like breaking a taboo to some. But ignorance through inaction doesn't protect you from the consequences, namely job loss and reduced job opportunities. There are no real victims in further education, only those who take action.
Enough is enough! Become a perpetrator and accomplice in the interest of your future!
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I welcome your suggestions at denkanstoss@microconsult.de.
Further information
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Food for thought:
Column by Peter Siwon about the human side of project work
Peter Siwon: Systemic project management
