In the objective and competitive realm of business, no amount of skill or hierarchy of position is going to secure your spot on the corporate ladder. Top managers and executives are aware of this, and they are usually more than prepared for the worst. They also have their expectations for when the time comes, and they have to face the cutting block.
Corporations should already have systems implemented for their outgoing employees regardless of their ranks. Those high up in the ladder did not get to where they are without professional and extensive knowledge of the business world, so it is only right that they anticipate excellence in every area of operations, including workforce management and layoffs.
In terms of layoffs and outplacement, these are what outgoing executives are expecting from the corporation:
Confident & Knowledgeable Consultants
The first step in a layoff is breaking the news to the outgoing employee. This is crucial and will set the tone for the succeeding processes.
Top managers will be expecting confident consultants who know the ropes and handle things objectively. Despite their credentials, these superiors might not be as knowledgeable in the process of employee outplacement, and some things might still take them by surprise. Layoff consultants should exhibit their expertise and be prepared for all the outplaced questions and challenges.
Professional Guidance and Programs
Effective programs are the core of employee outplacement. These packages should contain career assessment, thorough research, and hands-on guidance in every part of the process.
Higher executives up for outplacement anticipate a fallback plan ready to exit the company. There should be a specialized program for their specific needs as they transition in their career.
Executive outplacement requires a distinct approach due to the corporate structure’s complexity. Superiors know how hard it is to reach their current position. Anything less than that, they are overqualified for. Therefore, their transition needs thorough guidance and well-made programs.
Company Support
Finally, although an objective and vicious industry, the corporate world is not as heartless as it seems. Over the years, there have been countless interactions between managers and employees. This has led to spending quality time together and building meaningful relationships in the workplace.
With all the sacrifices and hard work outgoing executives gave to the corporation, the last thing they would want is to be treated like a mere commodity of the company. Upon news of their layoff, it is the common courtesy not to have them leave their job abruptly, so they’ll be spending a few more weeks in the office. During this time, there should be no changes in the rapport amongst the workforces. That would also be considered the professional way of doing things.
Layoffs are difficult for everyone involved. Receiving support from loved ones and peers in the workforce is extremely helpful for outgoing executives in their transition, which is an intimidating and uncertain feat in itself. It is also an optional but crucial part of the outplacement support process. Top managers might not openly say it, but a proper farewell from the company is guaranteed to make everything easier.