“Business is business, It's nothing personal”. How many times have you heard that statement? Is it truly possible to separate the personal quotient from the business equation? I think not. Even though some people write off the impact of a business decision on ones psyche as the cost of doing business, it is not healthy or advisable to separate the personal from the business . Like a skillful surgeon, some leaders believe they can separate these two symbiotic factors with out a drop of blood, or noticeable pain.

I was watching a television program this past week…one of those reality television shows where they place cameras in a work environment and film the theatrics of the staff as they move about applying their skillful trades. In this one particular episode the owner was letting go one of his tradesmen. On the way out the door the owner patted the newly unemployed man on the back and said…I kid you not…”this is a business decision, nothing personal.”

Sure it is. If we as leaders approach our people decisions with such callousness, then it won't be long before our reputation and effectiveness will be tarnished beyond the point of future trust and repair. I am not saying that during a time of reductions the relevant thing to do is hold everyone's hand singing the Coke song. However, I am stating that you should be realistic with the fragile emotional state of those who have become a casualty of the situation. It is business, and it is personal. Let's call a spade a spade, and deal with it in the proper context that it deserves.

When I make people decisions that impact my business or the businesses that I consult to, it is with a constitution that I have developed, enforced and swear to. In a nutshell it contains the following 10 tenants:

Treat Everyone with Respect

Evaluate Every Situation from the Individuals Perspective

Consider Every Option Before Acting

Create as Soft a Landing as Possible for the Individual Involved

Provide Guidance and Support

Be Available

Be Considerate

Be Understanding

Be Upfront and Truthful

Act With Integrity

These values are not just some words written on a tablet, they are my blueprint, my map and my conscience.

When in a position of leadership, you are empowered with certain responsibilities and challenges. My challenge to you is to remember to keep decisions that impact your people just that….people decisions, not business decisions. It really is a respect issue. Respect for the individual, and respect for you as a leader!