More than 32,000 people have been laid off from the U.S. technology sector in 2022, and only 9% of tech workers are feeling confident in their job security (CNBC.com). It’s never easy laying off employees, but sometimes it’s necessary for the survival of a company.
If you’re a tech entrepreneur and considering laying off employees to keep your business afloat, there are three questions you need to ask yourself first to help minimize repercussions.
1. Do we have clear and fair selection criteria for job cuts?
The first question you need to ask yourself is whether you have clear and fair selection criteria for who will be laid off. Laying off employees requires utmost precision and care, and you don’t want to create any legal problems for yourself or your company. Setting criteria ahead of time also makes layoffs fairer and less traumatic for employees.
Clear communication and transparency regarding layoffs are essential to maintaining a more positive company culture. No one likes to be kept in the dark, especially when their job is on the line. Be sure to communicate with your employees about why layoffs are necessary and make the criteria for layoffs known to everyone in the company.
2. Do we have a process for laying off employees?
Establish a process for notifying employees about layoffs ahead of time. This process should be respectful and considerate of the employees who are being laid off, and those who are staying. Give them as much notice as possible, and be sure to help them transition to their next job or career.
Layoffs can be a very difficult and emotional time for everyone involved. By having a clear process in place, you can streamline the experience for both your company and your employees.
In-person or phone conversations are good ways to deliver the news, and you should avoid laying someone off via email if at all possible. You can also consider offering career coaching services to employees who are laid off. This can help them transition to their next job, and it will show that you care about their future.
3. How will we communicate layoffs to employees who are staying with the company?
Layoffs will impact employees’ confidence in the company, so it’s important to communicate effectively with those who are staying. Be sure to emphasize that the layoffs were necessary for the company’s survival and that you have a plan for moving forward.
It’s also important to reassure employees that they are valued members of the team and that their jobs are safe. Let them know that you appreciate their hard work and dedication, and let them know what you’re doing to help the company grow.
Taking a more compassionate approach to layoffs can help promote a more positive company culture and help you retain your best employees.
Whether you communicate via email, video, etc., make sure your employees know about the layoffs before the media does. You don’t want your employees to find out about a massive layoff on the news, so be sure to keep them in the loop.
We Help Tech-Focused Businesses at Every Stage of Business
More and more tech companies are facing layoffs, and we understand the pressure that comes with letting employees go. We specialize in supporting technology and software businesses through every stage of business to help them avoid layoffs in the first place.
If you have any business or legal-related questions, or if you’re seeking a team that can help you strengthen your business, please contact us. We look forward to speaking with you.
*This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney to ensure that you are compliant with all applicable laws.
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