SPRING 2025
Other ways to support remaining employees Companies must keep lines of communication open when layoffs are involved. Companies should also: • Explain the new strategy. Let employees know how work will be redistributed and what their roles will be. • Redefine goals. Realign employee goals to match the new strategies. Make sure the goals are realistic, focus on the new priorities, and explain how progress will be measured. • Involve employees. Getting employee input gives them a sense of power over the changes they’re experiencing. It helps alleviate their fear and tension. Include them in the problem-solving steps and recognize their ideas. • Develop and expand skills. Employees might have to cover open positions or take on unfamiliar tasks. Support them as they learn and develop new skills, and offer them the resources they need. While this could be a great learning opportunity, it could also be overwhelming. Be empathetic as they grow and adapt. • Be supportive. Change is hard. Create time and space for employees as they adjust to doing more with fewer people. This might mean having more one-on-one meetings or carving out time to listen to their concerns and just being there for them. • Be open to feedback. This might be the toughest one but asking for feedback and being receptive to hearing it (even if it’s negative) creates trust. Providing a safe space for employees to speak openly without fear of repercussions fosters relationships and improves workplace culture.
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Michelle Higgins J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.
Michelle Higgins is an Associate Editor at J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. She joined the company in 2011. Combining her empathetic nature with creative skills, Michelle crafts insightful content spanning recruiting, hiring, workplace violence, and beyond. With her strong writing skills and a unique ability to translate complex concepts into accessible language, Michelle paves the way for informed, empowered workplaces.
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