For the next few pages, please think of “mergers” as encompassing the merger, acquisition and other restructuring activities that have become frequent, if not routine, exercises for airlines and other industries. Coping with mergers requires that organizations recognize the complex human factors involved in meshing diverse corporate cultures.
The fact is that mergers have a profound effect on employees and organizations, resulting in increased stress levels. Merger stress manifests itself in emotional, cognitive and physical symptoms which lead to decreased work performance, morale problems, lack of motivation and interpersonal conflicts.
Suggestions on how to effectively manage merger stress and respond to the many challenges facing individuals and organizations are presented.