The decision to implement layoffs can be a difficult and emotional one, both for employers and employees. As an HR leader, it's important to approach this process with sensitivity and care, ensuring that employees feel supported and valued throughout the transition.
Open and transparent communication is key throughout the entire process. Keep affected employees informed about the reasons behind the layoffs, the criteria used for selection, and the available support systems in place.
From our recent HR Community Roundtable, Prasetya B. Yudaputra emphasized on how building this trust would increase the level of support with employees.
“Rather than taking the backseats and doing what’s being told, HR leaders need to reset our mindset to take the captain’s role to co-lead with the management team on where and how the business is going.”
In the delegation module from Management Essentials Workshop, transparency is addressed through the conversation toolkit:
Our actions and words during the layoff process can have a lasting impact on individuals and the overall culture of our organization.
Approach this challenging task requires sensitivity and a deep understanding of the emotional weight it carries. Through this email template, the aim is to say the message with care:
Dear [employee name],
I hope this message finds you well. We understand that recent events have been incredibly difficult, and we wanted to reach out to express our sincere concern and support during this challenging time.
We want you to know that your hard work and dedication to our company has not gone unnoticed. We appreciate everything you have done for us, and we are incredibly grateful for your contribution to our team.
Unfortunately, we recently had to make the difficult decision to implement a layoff in order to ensure the long-term success of the business. We want to assure you that this decision was not a reflection of your work or value to our company. It was a necessary step to take, given the current circumstances.
We understand that this news may have come as a shock, and we want to provide you with as much clarity and support as possible. We are committed to assisting you through this transition and are available to discuss your options and any questions or concerns that you may have.
Please know that you are not alone during this time. We are here to support you and will do everything we can to provide resources, guidance, and assistance as you navigate this change.
Once again, thank you for your hard work and dedication to our company. We value you as an employee and as a member of our community, and we wish you all the best for the future.
Sincerely,
[Your name and company name]
We want to assure you that you are not alone. Join our SEA HR Community and take all necessary steps to minimize the impact on our employees.
Download the layoff message pdf.
