How to Handle Layoffs

Having to lay off employees isn't easy for anyone involved. However, as a company manager, the way in which you conduct a layoff can affect past, present and future workers. Here are some ways to navigate a layoff respectfully: 

Warn Them if You Can
No one likes to be blindsided. If your company obtains information that layoffs are going to be made in the future, sometimes it's in the best interest to inform your employees. First of all, this can increase incentive to work harder, which can make the layoff decision easier down the road. In addition, it gives your employees the chance to be prepared for what may come. There's nothing worse than a worker completely shocked upon being told he or she is going to being laid off – even though sometimes it's inevitable. 

As a boss or manager, be sure to make the best call for your company when deciding whether or not to inform employees there will be layoffs.

Communicate Openly
When you unfortunately have to conduct a layoff, it's important to give your terminated employees all the information you can. Be sure to do this in private so you can give employees the time and space to react. Do your best to explain to them the reasons why this has to happen. Be prepared to experience a wide range of emotions from sadness to rage. Everyone is different and can respond to this news differently. Some need to get it all out, and some want the cold, hard facts while others might just walk out the door, according to Harvard Business Review. 

Offer Help
Immediately after you break the news, be sure to make it about them, not the company. Do whatever you can to help, whether it's keeping in contact, giving them a lead on a job or simply explaining that you can be used as a reference. The more you try and offer help, the more positive your employees will feel about themselves and the company. 

Offer employees your business card, and encourage them to keep in touch and reach out if they ever need anything. Extending a helping hand can go a long way.

Thank Them
Oftentimes managers forget one of the most important parts of letting someone go: thanking the employee for all of his or her hard work. You'd be surprised at how much better an employee may feel if you speak to him or her earnestly about how grateful you are. Be specific. Reference moments when the person truly shined in the workplace. That way, he or she will be able to recall positive moments once the dust has settled. 

Respect Their Time
It's very important that you respect your employees' time. That means once you know they're going to be laid off, you should inform them. Be sure not to tip-toe around for a couple of days; it's a waste of their time and yours. In addition, be sure to conduct layoffs early in the day and the week. The last thing you want is your employees working hard all day or week only to be informed right before the weekend that they no longer work for you.