How can you support departing employees during lays-offs?

In uncertain times, many organizations have to implement a reduction in force to offset the changing economic landscape. “Saying goodbye responsibly” requires clear planning and an empathetic approach. Offering outplacement services is one way an organization can assist employees while also helping to protect the employer’s brand. 

What are outplacement services?

Outplacement services are services that help departing employees find the next steps in their career. They include things like career coaching, assessment guides, professional branding, and other critical services that will help position the individual for success. Outplacement services also send a positive message to your remaining employees during times of change and uncertainty. 

If this is the first time your organization is considering offering outplacement services or if it has been a while since you revisited your outplacement services plan, you might be wondering how to determine the services and the duration that should be provided in today’s market.

Here are seven outplacement service examples you should consider offering to departing employee:

1. Career Coaching

In one study conducted by the International Coaching Federation, the top three benefits of coaching are increased self-esteem, improved relationships, and improved communications. This shows that one-on-one coaching will aid in the transition process for individuals impacted by layoffs. Coaches who have been trained in career transition, and know how to approach the situation with empathy, will help position the individual for success.

2. Transition guides

When impacted by a layoff, an individual will go through a range of emotions, which can make it difficult for them to determine their next step. Having a clear transition guide that walks the individual through sequential steps can help point them in the right direction.

3. E-Learning/upskilling courses

With the acceleration of automation and digitization, critical skill gaps exist within the workforce. Research by the World Economic Forum shows that over half of all employees globally need to reskill by 2025. Providing an outplacement tool that offers the appropriate resources to fill these skill gaps helps equip the impacted individuals for employability.

4. Resume review

It is estimated that 68% of job seekers with professionally crafted resumes found jobs within 90 days. A person’s resume is the first impression when being considered for a new role, making it one of the most important points of focus. Offering a professional resume review that helps the individual position themselves in the right light, organize their skills and experience resume appropriately, and include the right words to articulate their experience can make a world of difference.

5. Social network integration

The success rate for finding a job is higher for individuals who have a connection at a company where they are applying; in fact, statistics show that 70% of employees got their current job through networking. This makes it essential to know who your connections are when looking a new job.

6. Job search and alerts capability

On average, 118 individuals apply for a job, but only 20% of those applicants get an interview. In addition, studies have shown that applicants who apply within 72 hours of a job being posted have a greater chance of being hired. Having an outplacement tool that allows the candidate to see new jobs through customized alerts and to search existing jobs using a robust search capability will allow for quick and easy job applications while positioning the individual favorably at the top of the candidate pile.

7. Access from anywhere, at anytime

Given the increase in remote work and the need for on demand services, it is important to provide resources that can be accessed from anywhere at any time. Our recent Severance Survey indicated that 89% of outplacement services included online, easily accessible tools. Individuals expect to be met “where they are,” and that includes 24/7 virtual access from any mobile-enabled device.

For more information on outplacement services from Mercer, please contact us today at surveys@mercer.com or 866-434-2120.