Finding positivity in a merger of equals

Abstract

This chapter highlights how, through management interventions, positive emotions can be generated and fostered during post-acquisition integration. The findings are based on a Finnish-German acquisition completed in late 2013. Data collection via interviews and employee satisfaction surveys conducted in both involved organizations centred on exploring the emotions that arise when two organizations come together to set up a new entity. The integration setting represents a merger of equals, making this case unique and particularly interesting. The findings suggest that positive emotions, such as happiness and pride, have an engaging effect, motivating employees to work towards change. To cultivate post-acquisition positivity, organizations can offer employees positive emotion triggers, such as experiences of ownership and a compelling vision of the future of the company.