Management must recognize that the workforce is not a rabbit that cowers in fear and paralysis in front of the snake.

For me as a works council leader, my responsibility for the 170,000 employees in Germany takes priority over other things.

The topic is not before us at this time, and we will not feed the speculation about personnel.

The topic isn't an issue right now and we won't fuel further speculation about personnel matters.

Making empowered decisions means taking risks. Many employees fear being reprimanded, or even fired, for making what management might view as a bad decision.

My potential speaks for itself. (who finished the year ranked 111 in 1998.)