Anyone know the 7 stages of business failure? (employees, bankruptcy, owner)

[MI-Roger]

We have probably all heard of the 7 stages of grief (or it is 5?), shock, anger, denial, energization, acceptance, etc., but is there a similar set of actions/reactions to a company going out of business?

I just left a group meeting where the intended affect was to be a rousing "Rah Rah" pep rally of why this place is so good, why we are so important to the company's future, why we are so valued and respected (a real stretch with this one), and why the company's future is so solid; even in light of extreme recent evidence to the contrary.

All I could think of was the story my dad told me of a similar presentation he received 40 years ago from his employer's owner; right before they declared bankruptcy.

At what stage are we now? Do I jump ship now, or can I wait till we get a little closer to shore before this boat goes under?

Thanks.

[sunny AZ]

Can you give us any more details on what exactly is happening? And why you think the company is in trouble?

[aaauger]

Commons signs of trouble:
1. Layoffs (of course)
2. Tightening of expenses in general
3. Reorganization(s)
4. Depressed managers
5. Failure to make payroll (extreme)
6. Unusual behavior (like a first time pep rally?)
7. Ramping up of sales force

The problem with employees quitting on a rumor or suspicion is that it can actually weaken an organization that was OK. Ask your boss and observe verbal/non verbal cues. Also do research on the Internet and in your local business paper.