You are the manager of a small container repair service (used in large cargo shipping). Your company just bought out your local competitor. The Board of Directors has asked you to combine the two organizations into a single, harmonious working team. But they require you to lay off 30% of the existing staff - which could come from either your current company or the new one. It's your choice.

Your challenge as a transformational leader: You have two identical work groups, including management . This includes a manager who is the same level as you. You are in charge. You may the call. You must lay off 30% and end up with a solid working team. Up to this point, both organizational cultures are relatively healthy. All are nervous about the decisions you are about to make.

What change approach do you select? Why? In short, what is your plan and strategy?