Recently, I've been working with a small company that is undergoing a restructuring of sorts.  They are basically trying to define their business processes.  In the past, they've been able to support their customers without the need for any of the traditional business processes.  However, they've began to grow and now are suffering from this lack of detail which has reared its ugly head in the form of late deliveries, poorly managed budgets and high turnover.  The company is struggling to get the processes developed but have taken an unusual approach by allowing many employees to become part of the change. 

Now, it's natural that employees feel the pressure of this change and take it as a threat to their current way of doing things.  After speaking with many of the employees, it became clear that this change is perceived as a roadblock for their career.  Much of this thought is driven by the perception that the transformation is indherently designed to reduce opportunities and benefits.  Since the company's leadership is striving to reduce costs and improve efficiencies, the employees felt that these benefits would come from them.
                                                                        

While a defensive response is natural, it's not the best one to have.  A reorganization or restructuring is an opportunity for the participating employees to improve the operation of the organization and potentially elevate their own position.  Many of these employees were asked to help redefine the way they accomplish their work, redefine responsibilities and, in some cases, the reporting structure.

                                                                         

In looking at what these employees have the power to modify, one would consider such changes to be extremely beneficial to a career.  Such opportunities are a great way to build your career position.  In the past, I've seen employees engage in reorganizations and come out with a higher level position.  These scenarios seem to fit in with the old saying that "he who has the gold, makes the rules."  If the company is giving you the power to improve your position, you should take them up on it.  While companies change often, most yearly, you won't always be asked to be a part of it.  Therefore, maximize the opportunity by becoming a big part of the change.