Need to lay off an employee? Breaking the news is never easy. However, if you take care to put it gently and tactfully, you may be able to keep your friendship and ease the pain of the job loss. Here is a guide on how to lay off someone.
A layoff can be very unpleasant, even for the person breaking the news instead of receiving it. While there's no way to make this a joyous occasion, there are some steps you can take to make the ordeal as non-traumatic as possible. If you do the following, you will be able to ease the situation for both parties involved.
Introduction
A layoff can be very unpleasant, even for the person breaking the news instead of receiving it. While there's no way to make this a joyous occasion, there are some steps you can take to make the ordeal as non-traumatic as possible. If you do the following, you will be able to ease the situation for both parties involved.
Step 1: Give Warning
If finances are headed south in your company and you realize that downsizing may be imminent, let your employees know. By being honest with your underlings, you will allow them time to find alternative work, and possibly even allow some people to quit and save you the necessity of layoffs altogether.
Whatever ends up happening, your employees will appreciate your honesty. You will keep your rapport, and also possibly curb any office rumors. After all, if your workers feel well-informed, they will have no reason to start speculating.
Step 2: Do it Before the Weekend
If you lay off someone on Monday morning, the rest of the office may lose focus and spend the rest of the week pondering the situation. By doing the deed just before a weekend break, you will allow employees to think about the situation at home, without losing productivity or spreading rumors around the workplace.
Step 3: Offer a Reason
Your employee is inevitably going to wonder why they are losing their job. They will most certainly appreciate an explanation of what is going on. By offering one, you will not only stop them from pulling their hair out wondering "why?" but you may also help them to avoid being laid off in the future.
Of course, it is important to be tactful when giving your reason for the layoff. If they have been chosen due to poor performance, explain that although they are a valuable employee, there are certain things that they may want to consider improving upon.
Step 4: Show Compassion
It will help the employee to know that you still care and value them as a human being, even if you can no longer offer them a job. Make a point to let them know that you appreciate all that they have done for the company, and that you are still there as a friend. Offer to write a letter of reference for them if you feel that they deserve it. Wish them luck, and provide any help that is possible in finding new employment.
