This article appeared in the news last week, and I was intrigued by the fact that David Cameron and Nick Clegg have emailed or sent letters asking public sector staff to help find "fair and responsible" cuts.
Nick Clegg said that the government was "prepared to look at any innovative idea, however bold, however radical, however off the wall it might seem to people, if it could save money in a way that was fair and protected frontline services". He went on to say that "all serious ideas would be passed on to officials for consideration and that workers would be invited to discuss their suggestions face-to-face with civil servants".
When I first heard this news on Radio 5 Live I was excited by the possibility of engaging people in looking at their own jobs and identifying waste and non value-adding activities. In my experience, people are more likely to embrace change when they are truly involved. However, I was disappointed by the second comment, as I immediately imagined the bureaucracy, endless committees and advisers 'blocking' and making any changes difficult to implement. Too many layers stifle innovation, creativity, decision making and most importantly, individual responsibility.
So my advice to our political leaders is to ASK but make sure you REALLY LISTEN. Then two things: on the 'easy stuff', let the people just get on with it; where it is more difficult, delegate that responsibility giving them the power and authority to implement it quickly, and give them access to the top when the 'blockers' start to surface.
So, David and Nick, be brave, be bold and take a risk. You might be surprised by what people can achieve when they are given the chance!
I would love to hear about your experiences of these cuts.
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