5 Best Practices for Compensation Programs and Driving Conditions

5 Best Practices for Driving Conditions and Compensation Programs

5 Best Practices for Driving Conditions and Compensation Programs

Similar
to when we are driving, compensation professionals must be acutely
aware of the conditions around us when we want to implement change. When
the weather is nice and the roads are dry, we can speed to our
destination with confidence that our vehicles will predictably go where
directed. When it gets a bit wet, we take a bit more care and slow
down.  It may take a little longer, but we know we will reach our
destination. The real trick is getting someplace when the roads are icy.

Icy roads require patience and deliberate action, even when it is
counterintuitive. If you brake too hard, or turn too quickly, your
vehicle loses traction and you lose control. No matter what is happening
around you, the only way to get to your goal safely is to stay calm,
plan ahead and make small adjustments within the limits of your
environment and experience.

In the world of compensation, the roads have been iced over for at
least a few years. Regulations keep changing. Shareholders have become
more vocal. Budgets have been decimated and philosophies have been
critically challenged. These issues and countless others have made our
paths treacherous, and yet many of us have not adjusted our approach. We
often feel forced to make decisions and act quickly. Outside forces
(backseat drivers) demand that we do the dangerous or impossible. As the
drivers of the compensation process, we must be able to hear these
voices without immediately reacting to them.

I know that your new CEO wants the new plan rolled out in 30 days.
Your VP of Sales has found a new magic pay formula and wants to
implement it immediately. Some consultant comes in and provides a few
great new “quick fixes” that will only work if the systems and staff
exist to support them. Regardless of the demands, we must remain at the
steering wheel, our eyes on the road ahead, while we calmly explain what
must be done to accomplish each item without sliding of the road into
the icy waters beside it.

So how do we accomplish this feat? It’s all about slow, smooth actions.

1. Watch the road ahead carefully. Don’t worry about what’s behind you
   until the road is safer. When you notice a dangerous area ahead take
   your foot off the accelerator and calmly plan your next action before
   taking it.


2. Drive slowly and keep traction. Rushing on ice only leads to failure. Keep moving forward, but only as fast as you can control.


3. Avoid sudden changes of direction. Quick turns will result in not
   turning at all. Too much pushing as you change direction can result in
   turning to far with little chance of recovery.


4. Avoid abrupt braking. Start stopping early. If you feel a loss of traction stop braking and start steering.


5. When it goes bad, accelerate in the opposite direction. If the
   things start to spin out of control, don’t brake. Keep moving but turn
   in other direction and slowly accelerate out of trouble.

Unlike cars, compensation professionals can hit icy patches at any
time of the year. Some of you have been spinning on ice for so long we
have forgotten the fast, safe roads of the last upturn. In the end, the
ice will thaw and those of you who were able to navigate the tough times
will be well positioned to help your company race into the upturn.
Before you decide to make an abrupt change this year ask yourself if the
road conditions will allow you to be successful. If not, educate your
backseat drivers before you decide to act.