Conduct Layoffs with Compassion
Layoffs during the pandemic are different; due to social distancing, they can’t happen in person. If you must oversee layoffs remotely, take extra care to break the news with compassion. Your aim is to treat people with dignity, fairness, and respect. Offer a short explanation about the economic conditions that led to the decision. Stress that the dismissal is not the employee’s fault, but a result of an unprecedented global crisis. Provide information on how your employee can apply for government benefits. Offer to serve as a reference for future applications, and share leads about any opportunities that you’re aware of. Even if you’re experiencing guilt and sadness, don’t make the conversation about you. Resist the temptation to say, “This is hard for me.” Instead, find a peer or mentor to help you talk through your feelings at another time. As a manager, it’s your responsibility to be fully there for your people, especially when you’re conveying devastating news.
“How to Manage Coronavirus Layoffs with Compassion,” by Rebecca Knight