Strategic Human Resource Management

Section Four

Table 4-2
Guidelines for Conducting Layoffs

Give Early Warnings/Announcements of Layoffs

Soften the Impact with Compensation and Benefits

Utilize the Services of Outplacement Firms

Supply Retraining Services

Provide Equitable and Decent Treatment of Laid-Off Employees

Ensure Supportive Treatment of Survivors

Maintain a Cooperative Approach with Unions

Uphold Obligations to the Community

Source: Adapted from Daniel C. Feldman and Carrie R. Leana. “Managing Layoffs:
Experience at the Challenger Disaster Site and the Pittsburgh Steel Mills,” Organizational
Dynamics 18, no. 1 (1989): 52–64.

Companies should give employees advance notice that
they are going to be laid off. Reasons for not providing notice
are based on fears that employees will sabotage equipment or
quit, leaving the company without workers to complete