Reorg and Team Carousel: Navigating Change in the Workplace

Introduction

In the fast-paced world of technology, organizational restructuring, or “reorg,” is a common occurrence. It often leaves employees feeling uncertain, especially when team dynamics and individual roles are in flux. Recently, I found myself facing such a situation: 50% of my current team is being reassigned to different teams, and while I’m not particularly saddened by the prospect, it raises questions about the future and how to navigate this transition effectively.

The Current Situation

My manager has mentioned two potential teams I might join post-reorg. One team is small, and the other is considerably larger. Historically, I have thrived in larger teams where resources are abundant and collaboration opportunities are plentiful. However, the prospect of joining a smaller team presents its own set of challenges and opportunities that I must weigh carefully.

Moreover, my manager has hinted at potential refreshers (stock awards) for me this year, indicating that the company values my contributions and wants to retain me. This is a positive sign amidst the uncertainty, but it begs the question: how can I leverage this situation to my advantage?

Assessing the Teams

The first step in navigating this reorg is to assess the teams I might be placed in. One team, which I have some familiarity with, seems adequate but lacks the high performance I aspire to be part of. The other team is a complete unknown. This lack of clarity is what troubles me the most.

Questions to Consider:

• What are the goals and projects of each team?
• Who are the team members, and what is their working style?
• What resources and support can I expect?

Understanding these facets can help me make a more informed decision about where I would be most effective and fulfilled.

Negotiating My Position

Given the current climate of layoffs and uncertainty, I recognize that my leverage may not be as strong as it could be in a more stable environment. However, there are still strategies I can employ to negotiate my position effectively.

1. Express Interest in Both Teams

I plan to communicate my enthusiasm for both potential teams while subtly indicating my preference for the larger team. This approach shows flexibility, which is often appreciated during reorgs.

2. Discuss Career Development

I will take the opportunity to discuss my career development with my manager. By articulating my goals and how I envision contributing to the company’s success, I can frame my conversation around my long-term value rather than just immediate concerns.

3. Leverage the Refreshers

The hint about stock awards is a positive signal. I could express my gratitude for the recognition, but I might also inquire about the criteria for receiving these awards. This could open a dialogue about my performance and potential contributions to the new team.

4. Seek Clarity

Finally, I will seek clarity about the timeline and criteria for team assignments. Understanding how decisions are made can help alleviate some of the uncertainty and allow me to prepare for whichever team I join.

Conclusion

While the prospect of a reorg can be daunting, it also presents an opportunity for growth and new challenges. By taking a proactive approach to understanding my options, negotiating my position, and managing my expectations, I can navigate this transition more effectively.

Ultimately, I am reminded that change is the only constant in our industry. Embracing this mindset will not only help me adapt but also empower me to thrive in whatever new team I may find myself in.

Join the Discussion

Have you experienced a reorg in your workplace? How did you navigate the changes? Share your thoughts and strategies in the comments below!