The employer's instinctive reaction to tough economic times is to cut costs.  Cutting costs usually means cutting employees.  Cutting employees, while providing some temporary relief, often results in cutting out parts of your company that, in the long run, you would be better off keeping. And — if you'll allow me to stretch the analogy — that can mean cutting off your nose to spite your face.

But thoughtful employers have found other ways.  One is counter-intuive: involving employees in strategizing how to cut workforce costs.

In that vein I suggest that two excellent posts, one from George's Employment Law Blog, the other from Gruntled Employees, are well worth your time.

Perhaps you'll find your own better way, and your business will benefit in the long run.