How to Layoff Employees During Pandemic Properly

“No one loves the messenger who brings bad news.” - Sophocles, Antigone

Nobody expected a pandemic would happen after more than a century since the Spanish Flu. The coronavirus has caught us off guard— the unemployment rate in the Philippines rose significantly in a snap. Based on the labor force survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) last April 2020, the unemployment rate is now at 17.7 percent, accounting for 7.3 million Filipinos.

The economy suffered drastically, and so do the people, as many companies chose and are still choosing to downsize. Most organizations might have already done it, but our current situation is different. So, how do we communicate downsizing to our employees during a pandemic?

Here are the helpful tips I gathered:

1.Do it in the right place and time

If the employees still go to work, talk to them privately in a meeting room. On the other hand, if the employees are working from home, ensure commitment to your meeting. You must also consider the best time to break the new s.

2.Be transparent and explain the reasons behind the decision Understandably, the employee already has an idea of why the company needs to let them go. Still, they deserve an honest explanation.

Highlight that it is not because they are lacking or incompetent, but it is due to the uncontrollable situation brought about by the pandemic. If the employee feels your sincerity, the process will go more smoothly.

3.Offer support

Indeed, losing a job is not an easy thing to accept. An employee may show signs of denial, anger, or frustration, and that is understandable.

You can show your support by offering a mini-talk that will allow them to express what they want, which can somehow ease their sadness and anxiety. 4.Explain what will happen next

Naturally, the employee will worry about their future.

As such, it is important to discuss all pertinent information like the dates of expiration of benefits, their last paycheck, and who they can contact for follow-up information when they have concerns.

5.Offer help

To make your employees feel that you value them and their talents, you can provide a reference or recommend job opportunities.

Given that there are limited job offerings this time, you can also offer tips on how to start a small business with affordable capital or suggest activities they can do for extra income.

Indeed, letting go of employees is a difficult task to do. Even so, if you were able to communicate and handle it properly, you can avoid conflicts and maintain a good relationship. You will part ways in good terms amid the challenging times we’re in.