2. Make Sure Senior Leadership Is Capable and Committed

The headcount solution is not something senior managers can order up and expect to happen with no further involvement on their part. Senior management must be prepared to provide the following throughout the effort:

• Visible participation in meetings and announcements at key junctures.

• “Walking around” time with employees to share information and support.

• Monetary and administrative resources necessary to conduct the headcount solution.

• Personal accountability and ownership of the good and the bad effects of the process.