Friday, April 3, 2009

"Do we agree with a pay-cut?"

As I was taking an early morning ride along Kuching City this morning, one of our local Radio Station is discussing on the topic of termination of employees in our country due to the current economic crisis, thus posing the question 'Do we agree with a pay-cut'? In regards to that, quite a number of listeners called in to give their views on it. Some really give a big NO while others give their support.

This question really interest me a lot. Experiencing being an employee for over 25 years and also having the opportunity of collective bargaining for improved terms and conditions with the management while being a Union Official, I believe that the question of having a pay-cut is not as easy as a simple 'yes' or 'no'. It really needs great thoughts, discussions and even calculation for the matter in order to make a wise decision.

For many employees their 'take home pay' each month might not be enough to cover their expenses, which have to further includes their loans, insurance, children's education, tuition fees, etc. With the commitments each family have, I wonder if the question of pay-cut really comes to reality, what will become of those family??? Do they have to stop paying their loans and insurance????? How about their children's education - to continue or not????? All these will really give big headaches and stress to many!

Based on my personal view, I belief that employees can tolerate with no yearly increment or any increased benefits for the time being, as long as they are not receiving less than what they have been receiving, meaning to say 'status quo'. This 'status quo' decision is more on a 'win-win' situation both for the employees and employers. Employers can continue to keep all its employees in this difficult situation without having to incur extras expenses while employees can continue to retain their job. This 'win-win' situation will sure boost the employees' determination to work harder to bring more profit to the company. With the full support from the employees, which ensures the company's strong performance, the company can easily manoeuvre through this moments of crisis. Once the crisis is over, both the employers and the employees will enjoy the fruits of their efforts and commitments.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I agree with you! A pay cut is like cutting off a piece of an employee's flesh!! With even a month salary some people still face money shortage problem, what more to say, reduce their salary???

Unknown said...

I fully agree with you....'Status quo' is the best decision to make(if need be)in facing this economic crisis.