Layoff & Separations

Many departments are facing difficult budget decisions that may result in reorganizations or staff reductions.

Nevertheless, sometimes layoffs are inevitable. Having to reduce staff can be one of the most difficult challenges that managers face. To respond to this challenge, Central Human Resources (Central HR) offers services and resources to support both management and staff during these turbulent times.

If you are currently facing budget cuts and are considering staff reductions as an option, a team of Central HR specialists is available to assist you. Contact your...

Telling employees that they are going to be laid off is never an easy task. You may experience anxiety and guilt about having to take the action. Recognize that these feelings are normal. Making sure that you treat the employee humanely and compassionately will help to make this difficult situation more tolerable for both of you. Be sure to tell the employee to consult the applicable policy or contract.

Speak to the employee in a private place. Recognize the employee's contribution to the unit. Briefly explain the...

When a person's job ends involuntarily because of budget cuts, it's normal to feel a sense of loss and the need to take some time to begin to heal. At least temporarily, you may have lost many things, including your daily work, your work associations, a structure for your days, financial security, and status. Even though your job loss is due to budget cuts and not your fault, it is common to feel some loss of self-esteem, or that somehow you have failed, and it can be hard to tell your friends and family.

...

It is your responsibility to respond to the feelings of the remaining staff and to communicate a positive image for the future. Here are some important topics to discuss; a series of meetings is a good way to ensure an ongoing safe place for communications.

Acknowledge that it is normal to feel anxious during these uncertain times. Announce the personnel changes that have occurred. If appropriate, explain the department reorganization and redefine roles. Discuss any impact on workload/work flow. Ask for suggestions for improving department effectiveness. Assure staff members that no...