Will Making People Redundant Make You Look Bad? Absolutely! 100%
Here’s How to Survive the Fallout.
Here’s How to Survive the Fallout.
Even your own team won’t trust you. Whispers will follow you down the corridor. Side glances will question your every move. The respect you’ve built? It’s on the line. But sometimes, the axe has to fall. If you’re going to be the bad guy, do it right. Here’s how to manage the chaos and keep your head above water.
When you drop the axe, expect fury. Tears. Cold, hard stares. This isn’t a possibility—it’s a certainty. These emotions? They’re raw. They’re real. And they’re not about you. They’re about shattered security and broken futures. Understand it. Brace for it. Don’t take it personally, but don’t flinch either.
Don’t walk into this unprepared. Plan your approach. Rehearse your words. Think about each person’s situation. Predict their reaction. This isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you say it. Your preparation is your armour. Without it, you’re walking into a storm unprotected.
When the time comes, don’t sugarcoat. Be direct. Be clear. But don’t be a robot. Acknowledge their pain. Listen, even when it’s hard. Your empathy isn’t about making them feel better—it’s about defusing a ticking time bomb. Validate their feelings, but don’t lose your cool.
Expect hostility. When it hits, stay calm. Don’t defend. Don’t justify. Focus on de-escalation. Keep your tone steady. Your body language open. If things get too heated, step back. Suggest revisiting the conversation later. Above all, keep everyone safe.
The conversation might be over, but your work isn’t. Offer support—outplacement services, counselling, job search help. Check in on those affected. This isn’t about being a hero—it’s damage control. Show that the company isn’t completely heartless.
Those still employed? They’re nervous. Demoralised. Wondering if they’re next. If you ignore this, you risk losing more than just jobs. Be transparent. Reassure where you can. Offer support. Handle morale with care—or watch it crumble.
You’re not Superman. You can’t do it all. This is where outplacement services come in. They offer the emotional and practical support you might not be able to. They help your employees move on. They make your life easier. Get them on board.
Scared of the fallout? Don’t be. Not when you’ve got support. At CareerConsultants, we know how to navigate the storm. We’ll help you manage redundancies with confidence. Don’t let fear hold you back—reach out. Let’s get through this together.
If you’re an employer looking for top-notch outplacement services for your executives, contact Career Consultants today for personalised advice and support. Let us help you ensure a smooth transition and continued success for your employees.