Business Unit Leaders should:

• Articulate a compelling business rationale for the deal
• Create a magnetic vision for the combined organization that people are attracted to and want to be part of going forward
• Make key decisions quickly regarding organizational structure, staffing, product rationalization, core processes, resource allocation, culture, and performance management
• Develop a structure and plan for implementing those changes, gather feedback, and correct course as required
• Design "early wins" to create energy and demonstrate the potential of the combined organization

Business Unit Managers should:

• Help people make sense of what's changing and what's not
• Communicate even when there are more questions than answers
• Perform despite distractions and distress
• Retain key talent and core customers without over-promising
• Model the attitudes and behaviors you expect from others

Employees should:

• Give the deal and your management team the benefit of the doubt
• Spend your energy and attention on things you can control
• Ask for the information and resources you need to stay focused and productive
• Remain positive and optimistic
• Minimize rumors, speculation, and gossip