What do you do if your company morale is suffering from a layoff?
Layoffs can send shockwaves through an organization, shaking the very foundation of employee morale and trust. As someone involved in HR operations, it's crucial to address the emotional and professional aftermath. When your company faces this challenge, it's important to act swiftly and empathetically to rebuild morale and maintain productivity. Here's how you can help your team navigate these tough times and foster a resilient workplace culture.
It's vital to acknowledge the emotional toll a layoff can take on your remaining staff. Transparent communication is key; let your employees know that their feelings of uncertainty and sadness are understood and shared. This empathy can help in bridging the gap between management and staff, showing that the company cares for its people beyond their job descriptions. Encouraging open dialogue about the layoffs can also help dispel rumors and reduce anxiety.
-
Murthy Nibhanipudi VS
"Experienced Vice President HR , Driving Strategic HR and Operational Excellence"
When company morale takes a hit due to a layoff, it's crucial for leadership to respond with empathy, transparency, and proactive support. Here are some steps to consider: Open Communication, Supportive Environment, Empowerment through Information, Focus on Retained Employees, Rebuilding Trust, Celebrate Resilience, and Invest in Morale-Boosting Activities. By taking proactive steps to address the impact of layoffs on company morale, leadership can mitigate negative consequences and lay the foundation for rebuilding trust, resilience, and a sense of optimism within the organization.
-
Jessica Pharm MBA, PHR
HR Professional| L&D Program Manager| Talent Acquisition | Centering the Black Experience in the Workplace |
Layoffs happen and companies need to understand its going to hurt employee morale no matter what. Companies need to open and honest about what happened, why and the impact. But don't make any promises. Being transparent is the first thing but it goes a long way to build trust.
-
Hina Khan
LinkedIn Top Human Resources (HR) Voice | LinkedIn Top Recruiting Voice | 10,000+ Connections and counting | Senior HR Manager at Marcell Technologies | Top HR Professional | Talent Hunter.
If company morale is suffering from a layoff, I would prioritize open and transparent communication to address employee concerns, provide support services such as counseling or career workshops, and actively engage remaining staff in rebuilding morale through team-building activities and recognition programs. In my personal experience, after a layoff in a previous company, our leadership organized regular town hall meetings to address concerns, offered career transition assistance, and encouraged team bonding activities to foster a sense of unity and support among employees.
-
Praisy Christian
𝐇𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞| 5 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧+ 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬 | 39𝐤+ 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 | 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫 | 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 | 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠
Recognizing the emotional impact of a layoff on your remaining team members is crucial. Transparent communication is essential; express empathy and understanding towards their feelings of uncertainty and sadness. This approach fosters a sense of connection between management and staff, demonstrating that the company values its employees beyond their roles. Encouraging open dialogue about the layoffs can dispel rumors and alleviate anxiety, promoting a more supportive and cohesive work environment.
-
Bayader Khangi
Talent Acquisition | Recruiter | Headhunter | Staffing | CV Reviewer | Freelancer Recruiter | Onboarding
In my knowledge, acknowledging pain is crucial when company morale suffers from a layoff. Host open forums or virtual meetings to allow employees to express concerns and feelings. Provide resources like counseling or support groups to aid those affected by the layoff. Implement transparency by communicating reasons behind the decision and outlining future plans to rebuild morale. Foster a culture of empathy and support, encouraging employees to lean on each other during this challenging time.
Providing support to both departing and remaining employees is a cornerstone of good HR practice after a layoff. This could involve offering career transition services, such as resume workshops or job search assistance, to those leaving. For those staying, consider implementing support groups or one-on-one counseling to address any lingering concerns or stress. This shows a commitment to employee well-being at all stages of their journey with the company.
-
Bayader Khangi
Talent Acquisition | Recruiter | Headhunter | Staffing | CV Reviewer | Freelancer Recruiter | Onboarding
In my experience, offering support during a layoff is essential for maintaining morale. Provide comprehensive assistance packages and career counseling services. Organize morale-boosting activities like team-building exercises and wellness workshops. Implement flexible work arrangements and encourage open communication channels for ongoing support.
-
Sara Bordeaux
I help organizations transform culture, equip frontline leaders, and cultivate best practices within human resources.
Its a great idea to have an outplacement agency onsite during a layoff to allow introductions for departing employees and explain the services they are being provided. A great outplacement partner is gold.
-
Muhammad Mohsin
HR Generalist I Lead - Talent Acquisition I People Management | Employee Relations | Employee Engagement | OD I GCU Gold Medalist I Ex-Nishat Apparel I Ex-Dunya Media Group I
Layoffs are a challenging reality for any organization, and it's crucial to recognize the impact they have on employee morale. However, it's essential to maintain connections with employees (remaining and outgoing). For those departing, consider providing assistance in securing new employment opportunities. This can include writing recommendations and facilitating connections with recruitment agencies to aid in their job search. For employees who remain, it's important to provide clear explanations regarding the reasons behind the layoffs and why they were not affected. Addressing concerns about job security and reassuring them about their continued role within the organization can help alleviate anxieties during this period of transition.
-
Jonathan Ramot, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
HR Thought Leader | Investor | Public Speaker. My opinions do not reflect the official positions of any companies I am associated with.
If it's within a company's budgetary constraints, a good professional coach or a mentor (either within an Employee Resource Group or outside of one) can help provide a safe, internal resource for employees to share their concerns with each other. If the employer cannot afford one, a cross-functional team of dedicated, empathetic employees can be the go-to option for employees to air their concerns without fear.
-
Ivor Egbert
Sr. HRBP | Ex- Wipro | HCL Technologies Ltd.
Offer resources and support services such as counseling, employee assistance programs (EAPs), or workshops on coping with change and managing stress. Ensure that employees know where to turn for help if needed. Demonstrate empathy and understanding towards employees who may be feeling anxious, uncertain, or demotivated. Encourage open dialogue and offer support to those who may be struggling emotionally
In the wake of layoffs, those who remain may feel insecure about their own positions. It's your job to reassure them of their job security and the company's future. Share any positive news about the company's direction and growth opportunities. This can alleviate fears and help employees focus on their work instead of worrying about another round of layoffs.
-
Bayader Khangi
Talent Acquisition | Recruiter | Headhunter | Staffing | CV Reviewer | Freelancer Recruiter | Onboarding
In my opinion, reassuring stability is crucial amidst a morale-hit layoff. Communicate transparently about the company's financial health and future plans. Offer assurances regarding job security for remaining employees and provide opportunities for skill development. Foster a culture of trust and resilience by emphasizing the company's commitment to navigating challenges together.
-
Chinda Vamsi
Recalibrating HR for the AI Age
During the tough time HR team was committed to supporting our employees and reassuring stability. We acknowledge the challenges and concerns that the layoff may raise, and we are there to provide clarity and guidance. The company remains focused on our strategic goals and growth opportunities, and we value the contributions of our talented team members in driving our success forward. Through open communication, employee support resources, and a shared vision for the future, we did navigate the period together and continue building a strong, resilient organization.
-
Jonathan Ramot, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
HR Thought Leader | Investor | Public Speaker. My opinions do not reflect the official positions of any companies I am associated with.
It's important to reinforce to the remaining employees that they are valued and that their ongoing contributions are critical to the company's success. (This does not diminish the value of the employees who were laid off for actual business reasons, but positive reinforcement for the remaining employees can help reduce their anxiety.)
-
Muhammad Adnan Rao
| Talent Management | HR Operations | Employee Relations | Performance Management| Employee Engagement| Human Resource Specialist at PDH Laboratories (Pvt.) Limited
Reassuring the remaining workers is a top tip for motivating and maintaining morale after downsizing. An effective way to reassure your team members is by appreciating their efforts in everyday tasks. You do not have to wait for year-end to hold appreciation awards. Instead, have frequent recognition activities. Examples: Monthly recognition awards Thank you notes Social media praise Trophies Wall of fame These activities will help team members overcome the insecurity and anxiety about their job safety and contributions to the company after a layoff.
-
Bhumika Verma
3X LinkedIn Top Voice || HR Executive at Xicom Technology
Post-layoffs, HR must reassure employees about job security and the company's future. Communicating growth plans and opportunities fosters confidence and redirects focus from concerns about layoffs. Emphasizing each employee's value cultivates stability and trust, fostering a culture of confidence that drives long-term success.
Reconnecting employees with the company's mission and values can reignite their sense of purpose. Remind them of the important role they play in the company's success and how their individual contributions matter. This can help shift the focus from the loss of colleagues to a shared vision for the future, fostering a sense of unity and drive among the team.
-
Chinda Vamsi
Recalibrating HR for the AI Age
In times of change, HR plays a vital role in reinforcing the purpose that unites us. We remind our employees that their individual contributions are essential to our organization's long-term growth and success. By reconnecting with our mission and values, we foster a sense of meaning and belonging among our team members. Through initiatives that highlight the impact of their work and celebrate their achievements, we aim to reignite their passion and commitment. Together, we will continue to build a purpose-driven culture that drives our shared success.
-
Sara Bordeaux
I help organizations transform culture, equip frontline leaders, and cultivate best practices within human resources.
It's also helpful to hold retention talks with the current employees. Ask them their purpose for working with the organization and what engages and drives them to do well and remain with the company.
-
Samoual Hassan
Head of Administration Dal Food, PhD in Economics in National Strategic Planning Heavy Industry Companies, SP-Assoc. CIPD. Talks about #Leadership, #Strategicworkforceplanning, #ChangeManagement, #TalentDevelopment.
Reconnecting employees with the company’s mission and values is crucial for maintaining a motivated and engaged workforce. When colleagues are reminded of their integral role in the organization’s success, it can reignite their sense of purpose and commitment. Regularly communicate the company’s mission and vision. Emphasize the company’s core values. Encourage employees to live these values in their daily work. Recognize and celebrate instances where employees exemplify these values. Reconnecting employees isn’t a one-time effort, it’s an ongoing process. You may instill a feeling of purpose and motivation in your staff by reiterating the company's mission, recognizing individual achievements, and cultivating a positive work environment.
-
Devika Wagh-Rane
Senior Executive Human Resources
After assuring the employees stability. There should be all hands meeting where top management along with HR can explain their purpose for future. So that employees get clear picture and can fresh start.
-
Bhumika Verma
3X LinkedIn Top Voice || HR Executive at Xicom Technology
In times of change, it's crucial to reconnect employees with the company's mission and values. By emphasizing their contributions to the company's success, HR can foster a sense of purpose and belonging, shifting focus from layoffs to a shared vision. Reinforcing the company's mission guides decision-making and cultivates a culture of engagement, driving commitment to a shared journey toward success.
Restoring trust after a layoff is essential. Honesty about the reasons behind the layoffs and what measures are being taken to prevent future job cuts can help rebuild confidence. Regular updates on company performance and strategic decisions can further enhance transparency, demonstrating that management is committed to keeping the team informed and involved in the company's path forward.
-
Chinda Vamsi
Recalibrating HR for the AI Age
Building trust is paramount in the aftermath of a layoff. HR team should be committed to fostering an environment of transparency and open communication. HR should provide honest and timely information about the reasons behind the workforce reduction and the steps being taken to ensure the company's long-term stability. Through regular updates on performance and strategic decisions, keep the employees informed and engaged in the shared journey forward. By prioritizing transparency and involving team members in the process, we should work together to restore confidence and build a foundation of trust that will guide through the challenging time.
-
Bhumika Verma
3X LinkedIn Top Voice || HR Executive at Xicom Technology
Rebuilding trust post-layoff is vital for organizational stability and morale. Transparency about the reasons behind layoffs and preventive measures demonstrates honesty and integrity, crucial for fostering trust. Regular updates on company performance involve employees in decision-making, reinforcing transparency and accountability. Building trust is an ongoing process requiring openness and active engagement, essential for long-term success.
-
Siddhant Kashyap
Sr. Manager, People Partner at Technicolor Group
Treat them as a mature audience. In our current information age building on transparency is building on trust. Providing a full picture of what the business is going through and why the decisions were made - collect feedback which helps in deciding a way to move forward collectively as an organization
-
Shazia Ali (CHRP)©
𝑳𝒊𝒏𝒌𝒆𝒅𝑰𝒏 𝑻𝒐𝒑 𝑯𝑹 𝑽𝒐𝒊𝒄𝒆 (𝟏3-𝑩𝒂𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒔) | 𝑪𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒆𝒅 𝑯𝑹 ©|𝑪𝑯𝑹𝑷 © | MS-HRM®| CHRMP©| CIRP© | Head-Hunter | Brand Ambassador |Talent Acquisition | 𝟐𝟗𝐊✍+𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬
Be transparent and honest in your communication about the layoffs and the reasons behind them. Building trust through open dialogue can help rebuild morale and strengthen employee loyalty.
-
Purnima Sinha
Top Career Counseling Voice | HR Business Partner | HR Specialist | Technical Recruiter | Talent Acquisition | Recruitment Consultant | Payroll Management |
Building trust means creating a strong bond of confidence and belief between the employees and the company. It's like building a strong foundation for a relationship. To build trust, the company needs to be open and honest in its communication with the employees. It should also show that it cares about their feelings and supports them during difficult times. Consistency and reliability are important too, so the company should keep its promises and be dependable. Recognizing and appreciating the employees' efforts also helps in building trust. Finally, involving employees in decision-making and valuing their opinions makes them feel valued and trusted. Building trust takes time, but it's important for a positive work environment.
Lastly, it's important to plan for the future with a focus on resilience and growth. Engage your team in developing new strategies that take into account the changed dynamics post-layoff. Empower them to contribute ideas and be part of the recovery process. This collaborative approach can foster a sense of ownership and optimism, essential for moving forward after such a significant change.
-
Jonathan Ramot, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
HR Thought Leader | Investor | Public Speaker. My opinions do not reflect the official positions of any companies I am associated with.
With so many companies being battered by the current financial outlook, it's important to re-center the objective back to the company. There may be tasks and reports that were once commonplace, but will now be eliminated completely. It's important to get consensus from the remaining team members so that everyone is aware of the new normal, so that no one is surprised by the newer, leaner outlook for the future.
-
Ashley Tan
HR Tech | diversity inclusion and equity | Employer Branding
In the broader narrative of resilience and growth, using KarmaV's IA framework to address biases and enhance retention aligns with engaging the team in developing new strategies. It empowers employees by actively involving them in shaping the organization’s future, fosters inclusivity, and builds a workplace that is adaptable and forward-looking. This collaborative and data-informed approach not only aids recovery post-layoff but also strengthens the organization’s capacity to thrive in the face of future challenges.
-
Ivor Egbert
Sr. HRBP | Ex- Wipro | HCL Technologies Ltd.
Provide opportunities for professional development, training, and skill-building to empower employees and enhance their career prospects within the organization. Invest in their growth and advancement to demonstrate commitment to their long-term success. Lead by example as a positive and resilient leader, demonstrating optimism, adaptability, and a commitment to overcoming challenges together as a team. Inspire confidence and instill a sense of hope for the future.
-
Devika Wagh-Rane
Senior Executive Human Resources
Engage your team in developing new strategies that take into account the changed dynamics post-layoff. Empower them to contribute ideas and be part of the recovery process.
-
Ivor Egbert
Sr. HRBP | Ex- Wipro | HCL Technologies Ltd.
Lead by example as a positive and resilient leader, demonstrating optimism, adaptability, and a commitment to overcoming challenges together as a team. Inspire confidence and instill a sense of hope for the future.
-
Amber Richards
VP of Recruiting at Talent Masters | Strategic Talent Advisor | Servant Leader | Passionate Relationship Builder | Ally
To turn company morale around after a layoff, it is crucial to be transparent with both the laid off employees & those that remained, on the reason for the lay off. Be honest about what happened & how you plan on avoiding it in the future as well as turn it around quickly. Offering counseling to everyone will show that you care about them. I think it is important to take it a step further and bring in a firm that offers outplacement services, HR services to help your current HR department, training & development for those staying (work loads will increase & new tasks needed from employees) & the most important service during these times which is a culture assessment. Revamping the culture within your company after a layoff is critical.
-
Kirsten Price
Walt Disney Legacy Award Recipient for Change Management with a focus on Culture and Processes | Experienced Leader in Communications, Project Management & Human Resources
Sincerity. Everything that you do, from creating communication about the layoffs to meetings with the impacted employees must be sincere. When I was laid off, the VP in the room told me that "she appreciated all of my contributions to the company." I knew this was part of the script as I had seen it before. But the phrase being scripted isn't what bothered me, it was the fact that she was not being sincere. She had never taken the time to get to know me or my organization, so that line was a lie. Employees will know immediately if you are not being sincere, and that will make an already difficult situation much worse and can destroy morale.
-
Kathleen Gabriel
Fractional CHRO
Before any of this, carefully plan the layoff and the communication surrounding it. Eliminate positions based on strategic planning, including the long-term impact of that work being eliminated or doubled onto remaining employees. Consider whether any group of employees could be a protected class, regardless of whether or not that was the intention. It is normal for employee morale and stability to take a hit right after a layoff - anticipate that as part of your plan, and make sure that you're walking the talk of your communication so that you don't lose trust and productivity in the layoff's wake.
-
(Wulan) Ranny
Human Capital Strategic, Consultant, Advisor, HR on Duty podcast, Trainer, Writer.
1. Communicate Openly: Be transparent about current and future plan 2. Focus on Engagementto strengthen relationships and trust among the remaining team 3. Involve Employees in Decision-making about the way forward to empower them 4. Recognize and celebrate the hard work and achievements even small ones, to boost morale and motivation. 5. Invest in training & development opportunities for employees to enhance their skills and career prospects within the company. 6. Regular check-ins and surveys to understand their needs and concerns. 7. Lead by Example : Show resilience and a positive outlook as a leader. It's important to stay committed to supporting your team through this challenging period.
Rate this article
More relevant reading
-
Executive ManagementWhat do you do if your company is planning a layoff?
-
Employee RelationsHere's how you can navigate the communication of a layoff to your employees.
-
HR OperationsHere's how you can effectively explain layoff reasons to employees.
-
Office AdministrationHere's how you can skillfully communicate a layoff to your colleagues.