By Pat Brown, MBA
Mass layoffs are difficult for everyone involved—not just for the employees losing their jobs but also for the HR professionals tasked with managing the process. While companies often focus on financial adjustments and restructuring, the human element of layoffs is just as critical. Employees who are suddenly out of work need guidance, resources, and reassurance to navigate their next steps.
HR teams can play a vital role in mitigating the impact of layoffs by offering support beyond severance packages. Whether you’re an HR leader preparing for a workforce reduction or an employee wondering what help is available, here’s how HR can be a valuable resource during mass layoffs.
The Role of HR in Mass Layoffs
Human Resources departments are at the front lines of layoffs, responsible for handling the process with professionalism, empathy, and legal compliance. Their role includes:
- Ensuring layoffs follow fair labor practices and legal requirements
- Communicating changes clearly and compassionately
- Providing severance packages, benefits details, and transition assistance
- Helping employees access job placement services and career coaching
- Supporting the morale of remaining employees
When handled correctly, HR’s involvement can help employees leave with dignity and a plan for the future rather than feeling abandoned.
How HR Can Support Laid-Off Employees
HR professionals can take several proactive steps to help affected workers:
1️⃣ Offer Career Transition Services
One of the most valuable ways HR can assist employees is by connecting them with career transition services such as:
✅ Resume writing assistance
✅ Job placement programs
✅ Interview coaching
✅ LinkedIn profile optimization
Some companies partner with outplacement firms to provide these services, ensuring employees have the tools they need to land their next job.
2️⃣ Provide Mental Health and Emotional Support
Layoffs are emotionally taxing. HR can help by:
✔ Offering counseling resources through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
✔ Hosting support groups or career transition workshops
✔ Encouraging managers to check in with departing employees to show support
Companies that offer mental health resources help employees process the change in a healthy way and move forward with confidence.
3️⃣ Guide Employees Through Benefits and Severance
HR professionals should clearly explain:
🔹 How severance pay works
🔹 Whether health insurance benefits can be extended through COBRA
🔹 What options exist for retirement plan rollovers
🔹 How employees can file for unemployment
Providing written guides or FAQ documents can ensure employees understand their financial and healthcare options.
4️⃣ Assist With Job Searching
HR can provide practical help by:
🔸 Hosting career fairs or networking events for laid-off employees
🔸 Connecting workers with hiring companies and recruiters
🔸 Encouraging employees to stay in touch via professional networks
Some HR teams even create “alumni networks” to help former employees stay connected and access new job opportunities.
5️⃣ Communicate Transparently
One of the biggest mistakes companies make during layoffs is poor communication. HR should ensure that employees receive clear, honest, and compassionate messaging about:
✔ Why layoffs are happening
✔ What the timeline is
✔ Who will be impacted
✔ What support is available
Employees appreciate transparency and empathy during difficult transitions.
How Employees Can Access HR Resources After a Layoff
If you’ve been laid off, don’t hesitate to reach out to HR for help. Here’s how you can make the most of available resources:
🔹 Ask about severance and benefits details before signing anything
🔹 Request career transition assistance if your company offers it
🔹 Seek out networking opportunities—HR may have connections to recruiters
🔹 Use mental health services if layoffs have taken an emotional toll
HR is there to help employees land on their feet—but many workers don’t realize they can ask for these services.
Final Thoughts from Pat Brown, MBA
Mass layoffs are never easy, but HR teams have the power to make the transition smoother for affected employees. Companies that prioritize compassion, transparency, and career support can help workers recover faster and find new opportunities.
If you’ve been laid off, don’t go through it alone—use the resources available to you. And if you’re an HR professional navigating layoffs, remember: your role is crucial in helping employees rebuild their futures.
For more career advice and layoff support, visit www.laidofffromwork.com.
