Communicating changes when you don't know the end state

Submitted by George Wenzel
in

Our workplace is going through a fairly major transformation combined with downsizing - some business lines are being eliminated or transferred, and many positions are being cut. The ripples of fear have spread throughout, and it seems that everybody is worried that their job will be cut, which obviously is creating stress.

Most managers in the organization don't really have a clear picture of the end-state - senior leadership either doesn't yet know the details, or haven't shared that information as of yet. Any advice for a typical front-line manager in this situation? How do you manage the change, keep your staff engaged in doing the work, and keep your own spirits up when the future seems so uncertain?