Five Proven Outcomes of a Solid Career Transition Program
Layoffs and downsizing are on the rise, and many employers are looking for ways to support their employees throughout this process. One option is outplacement services, which provide employees with tools to help them succeed during the transition. But what exactly are outplacement services? How can they benefit your business and your team? And how can they support your employees through a smooth career transition? Let's dive in.
Continuing to support your team
As employers face the tough choice of laying off workers, it's important to remember that this doesn't mean that your company has to leave its former staff members without support when it comes time for them to find new work.
In fact, many companies are looking for ways to work with their staff as they transition into new positions or careers. Leveraging outplacement services can help ensure that your employees have everything they need during their career transition: from career coaching services and workshops to job search assistance with branding and resume writing, networking tips, and interview preparation advice.
The importance of behavioral changes alongside skills and knowledge
While skills and knowledge are essential for career success, behavioral changes can be equally important, especially during a career transition.
During a career transition, individuals need to develop new strategies and behaviors that align with their goals and aspirations. For example, they may need to improve their networking skills, learn how to effectively communicate their strengths, or adjust their approach to job interviews. This is also a good time to reinforce positive new behaviours such as practicing self-care. Encouraging them to spend time focusing on themselves during this transition can help them become more clear on what they truly want out of their next role.
This is also where outplacement services and career transition support can come in. These services provide individuals with access to a range of resources and tools that can help them develop the necessary behaviors and skills for career success.
Not only does this benefit the individual, but it can also benefit the business that is providing these services. By supporting their former employees, businesses can maintain a resilient workplace with a positive reputation and reduce the risk of negative feedback and reviews.
Five ways outplacement services help with a smooth career transition
Boost Employee Morale
Retain a Positive Reputation
Reduce Legal Risk
Maintain Positive Relationships
Improve Team Morale
Layoffs and downsizing can be difficult for both employees and employers. While the business may need to make tough decisions to remain financially stable, it is important to also support employees during this transition and understand the range of emotions they are likely going through. Outplacement services can provide a valuable resource for businesses looking to support their employees during this challenging time.
Here are a few ways that outplacement services can benefit your business and your team:
Boost Employee Morale
Losing a job can be a significant blow to an individual's self-esteem and confidence. In fact, 55% of workers define themselves through their careers according to a study in Gallup. By providing outplacement services, businesses can help employees navigate their job search with more ease and provide resources to boost their confidence during the transition, and show them that their identity is not tied to a single workplace and that there are other options available. This can help improve employee morale and prevent a negative impact on productivity and work culture.
Retain a Positive Reputation
When companies provide outplacement services, they demonstrate their commitment to their employees' well-being and career development. This helps maintain a positive reputation and dedication to a supportive company culture in the eyes of both current and potential employees, as well as the community at large.
Reduce Legal Risk
By providing outplacement services, businesses can help their former employees find new employment more quickly, reducing the likelihood of legal action or negative feedback. Additionally, outplacement services can help ensure that the termination process is legally defensible and in alignment with employment standards, which can also mitigate the risk of legal action.
Maintain Positive Relationships
Outplacement services can help businesses maintain positive relationships with their former employees, which can be valuable for future opportunities, collaborations, or referrals. By providing support and resources, businesses show that they value their employees and their contributions, even after their time at the company has come to an end.
Improve Team Morale
When businesses support their former employees during a transition, it can also improve the morale of the remaining team. According to BetterUp, productivity among the remaining team drops by an average of 12% after a layoff. By demonstrating a commitment to employee well-being, businesses can maintain a place of psychological safety that encourages a positive and supportive work culture. In turn, helping to attract and retain top talent.
As a reminder, it is important not only to choose a career transition and outplacement service provider that aligns well with your organization, but also one that holds the right credentials. Some of these may include education, certifications, and training, positive reviews and testimonials, the ability to offer personalized and tailored career guidance, and robust service offerings to best support your unique needs.
Summary
In summary, career transitions don’t need to be difficult if you utilize the right tools to support your team in a meaningful way. Outplacement and career transition services provide employees with the tools and resources to help them succeed during their career transition, including career coaching, job search assistance, and supporting and encouraging behavioral changes. By providing support and resources for former employees, leaders can continue to boost employee morale, maintain a positive reputation and reduce legal risk, all in support of cultivating positive relationships, and improving team morale. If your business is considering layoffs or downsizing, outplacement services can be a valuable tool for supporting your employees and minimizing the impact on your team and reputation.