#outplacement services for layoffs

[mentorshelly]

3 Key Benefits of Outplacement Services for Employers

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, navigating workforce changes can be challenging for employers. Outplacement services play a crucial role in supporting both organizations and their employees during times of transition. MentorShelly Consulting is at the forefront of providing compassionate, effective outplacement services. Here’s a look at the top five benefits of choosing…

[iww-gnv]

Tech companies such Google, Amazon, Meta (Facebook) and others laid off tens of thousands of workers last year as an adjustment to over-hiring during the COVID-19 pandemic. But the firings have not abated in 2024. In January, job cuts leaped 136% over December and hit a 10-month high, according to a new report by outplacement firm Challenger, Gray and Christmas. The surge in firings was led by the tech and financial services sectors. (In fact, Cisco may be eyeing significant layoffs.) US-based employers announced 82,307 cuts in January, compared to 34,817 cuts the month before, according to the outplacement firm’s report. While that January number is down 20% from the 102,943 cuts announced in January 2023, they’re a sign the tech job market is shifting. In 2024, tech employers making or planning significant cuts include SAP, EBay, Microsoft, and Google (Alphabet). So far this year, 135 tech companies laid off nearly 34,000 workers, according to Layoffs.fyi, which began tracking tech layoffs in March 2020. That compares to all of 2023, when there were at least 154,000 layoffs at more than 1,000 tech companies, according to Layoffs.fyi.

[exitrowiron]

What are your thoughts of all the layoffs announced by the tech companies? How would you navigate this if you were laid off or not from one of these companies?

Great question!

Unfortunately I'm not surprised by the tech layoffs. Before I retired in early 2022 my company was regularly losing good (and not so good) software engineers to Microsoft, Facebook, Salesforce and Amazon. The compensation offers were off the charts and I didn't believe it was sustainable. I didn't blame them for leaving, but the compensation seemed too good to be true and in my experience situations like that rarely last (ex. real estate prices going up 15% year after year).

Although some tech firms had begun to announce minor trimming of their work force in Q3, it seems like Twitter really opened the floodgates. Now more companies could follow and once all the big tech employers were cutting, there was less risk of losing the most valuable, talented staff to competitors. My heart goes out to anyone impacted by the layoffs, but I firmly believe this disruption is temporary and talented software engineers will be in demand for a very long time.

What would I do if I was laid off?

Set a deadline (no more than a week) by which time you will stop feeling sorry for yourself, etc. Most people can probably think of reasons why they shouldn't have been cut, but it doesn't matter any more. Accept the unfortunately reality of your situation and get to work.

Take advantage of any outplacement services offered by your former employer, especially resume writing. The last time I sent a resume it was read by a human. That's not the case today. Make sure your resume has the necessary key words to get past the AI screener.

Work your network - personal, college, family, previous employers, LinkedIn. It still helps to have someone recommend you to the hiring manager and/or recruiter. At the very least it may help secure an interview. Don't be shy about telling people you've been laid off. Anyone with any professional experience knows that this isn't a personal shortcoming. Layoffs can happen to the best employees.

Get your financial house in order. Do a cash-flow forecast and assume you'll be out of work for six months. Eliminate/minimize unnecessary expenses but be sure to sign up for COBRA medical coverage. Don't let a mountain of debt accumulate - take part time gigs if you need to.

Update your skills/certifications.

If you're a software engineer, make sure your profile/projects in GitHub are a positive reflection of your skills.

What would I do if I wasn't laid off?

I was a senior executive in the corporate travel industry before and after 9/11 and the financial meltdown on 2008/9. In both cases business travel plummeted and the survival of the company required layoffs. Unlike the tech companies today, we weren't guilty of mindlessly pursuing growth at any cost, but we had to do layoffs just the same. I helped determine how many cuts were necessary across the company and had to layoff members of my team. In each case we tried to minimize the number of layoffs by cutting expenses/compensation at all levels.

When laying off people it is important to act with as much empathy as possible and to try to do it all at once, rather than leaving the remaining employees with the fear that their job may be cut later. It just as important to be fair - HR has to carefully review the recommendations to make sure that no group (especially protected groups) is being unfairly targeted.

As an executive who hadn't been laid off, I had to accept that many current and former employees would view me as one of the bad guys. In a situation like this, people need someone to blame and for some people that person was me. Layoffs destroy or at least significantly degrade a company's culture, impact productivity, damage it's reputation with customers and potential employees and it takes a long time (years) for those things to recover. Time, patience and genuine empathy are required.

Regardless of your job situation, it is a good habit to update your resume every year. Your CV shouldn't keep growing longer, but you should keep it current with your latest accomplishments while trimming the details of past.

Thanks for the question. Hope that helped.

[squarepeg-roundhole]

I was lucky for most of my professional career and did not experience any layoffs. The pandemic put an end to that streak, and I have been a part of three layoffs now; one in 2021 and two in 2023. In one of those, I was laid off.

I have very complicated feelings about the whole thing, which I am still working through. I personally think I was treated very humanely throughout the process. A business is, in the end, a group of people trying to accomplish something and if they need a different group of people to accomplish the thing, that is not inherently evil. I was given months of severence, COBRA, and outplacement services to help with resume writing and updating my LinkedIn and I found a new job in four months. The thing I struggle with, and the thing that I may never get over, is that the product I worked in for my whole career is being sidelined despite there not being a viable replacement product for the company. It is clearly the wrong thing to do for the customers and it hasn’t worked out well for all the laid off people either. From what I understand he current employees aren’t doing so great either. Who is benefiting from these crazy decisions? The shareholders? Why should they benefit while employees and customers alike suffer?

Something is wrong with corporate America. The grow or die mentality does not lead us to good outcomes.

We all deserve this kind of support.

[abcconsultants]

Understanding Outplacement Services: A Comprehensive Guide for Employers

Companies provide Outplacement Services to help former employees transition to new jobs following layoffs. These services range from resume writing and interview coaching to job search assistance and career counselling. By offering professional guidance, outplacement services aim to ease the personal and professional turmoil experienced by employees who have been let go due to company downsizing, mergers, or other market-driven changes.

Benefits for Companies and Departing Employees

The benefits of outplacement services extend beyond the departing employee. For the employee, these services provide a structured support system to navigate the job market, enhancing their chances of finding new employment sooner. This support helps maintain the individual's morale and self-esteem during a challenging period and equips them with necessary job-seeking skills tailored to the evolving market demands.

For the company, providing outplacement services can significantly bolster its reputation. It reflects a commitment to corporate social responsibility, demonstrating to the remaining staff and the external business community that the company values its workforce and is willing to invest in its future, even when parting ways.

This can enhance employer branding and employee engagement and help retain remaining staff who might otherwise feel insecure about their own job stability.

Key Components of Outplacement Services

Outplacement firms offer services designed to address various aspects of the job transition process. These include:

Resume Writing and Editing

Helping candidates articulate their skills and experiences in a professional format that meets current market standards.

Interview Coaching

Preparing candidates for interviews through role-playing, feedback, and tips on handling tough questions effectively.

Job Search Assistance

Providing resources and tools to identify employment opportunities, including access to exclusive job listings and networking opportunities.

Career Counseling

Offering career direction guidance may include assessments to identify strengths and interests, potentially leading to a career pivot or advancement.

The Business Case for Providing Outplacement Services

The rationale for investing in outplacement services goes beyond altruism. From a business perspective, these services can mitigate legal risks associated with layoffs. They demonstrate that the company is taking proactive steps to comply with employment laws and regulations, which can reduce the likelihood of legal actions from disgruntled former employees.

Moreover, outplacement services can preserve morale among remaining employees by showing that the company cares for its workforce, thereby maintaining productivity and engagement levels.

Choosing the Right Outplacement Provider

Selecting an effective outplacement firm is crucial. Employers should consider providers who demonstrate the following:

Expertise in Relevant Industries

The provider should have a proven track record in your industry or handling similar employee profiles.

Customisation Options

Each layoff scenario is unique, and the provider should be able to tailor their services to meet the employees' specific needs.

Success Rates

Evaluate their success in helping former employees transition to new jobs. Metrics can include job placement rates and time taken to secure new employment.

Employers should ask potential providers about their approach to career transition, the technologies they use, and how they measure success. Understanding the scope of their network can also provide insights into their capability to support job seekers.

Final Thoughts

Investing in quality Outplacement Services is a strategic decision that benefits all parties involved. For employers, it reinforces a positive corporate image, aids in risk management, and helps maintain a productive work environment. For employees, it provides essential support that can significantly impact their career trajectory post-layoff. Companies are encouraged to view outplacement services not as optional but as a critical component of their human resource strategy, particularly in managing changes involving workforce reductions.

[sultanlawyerscanada]

Understanding Termination Packages: What Every Employee Should Know

A termination package, also known as a severance package, is compensation that employers offer to employees when their employment is terminated. Whether the termination is due to layoffs, restructuring, or other reasons, understanding what constitutes a fair termination package is essential for both employers and employees. This guide will help you navigate the ins and outs of termination packages, ensuring you're informed of your rights and options.

What Is a Termination Package?

A termination package typically includes monetary compensation along with additional benefits that an employer offers to an employee whose job has been terminated. The specific components of the package can vary based on the employer, the length of employment, and the terms of the employment contract. While not every employee is entitled to severance, many companies provide termination packages as part of good business practice or as required by law.

Key Components of a Termination Package

Severance Pay Severance pay is the most significant component of a termination package. It's typically calculated based on the employee's length of service, salary, and, in some cases, position within the company. For example, an employee with many years of service may receive a larger severance pay package than someone with only a few months of employment. Severance is generally paid out in a lump sum or installments.

Continuation of Benefits Employers may offer to continue an employee’s benefits, such as health insurance, for a specified period after termination. This can be particularly valuable, as finding new employment often takes time, and maintaining health coverage is a priority for many individuals.

Accrued Vacation Pay Any unused vacation time is typically paid out as part of a termination package. Depending on your employment contract and the applicable labor laws, this may be mandatory.

Bonuses and Commissions If your compensation package includes bonuses or commissions, these may also be addressed in the termination package. Some employers choose to pay out bonuses that were earned but not yet paid, while others may offer prorated bonuses based on the time worked during the bonus period.

Outplacement Services Outplacement services are designed to help employees transition to new employment. These services may include career counseling, resume writing assistance, job search resources, and interview preparation. This is a valuable part of the termination package, as it supports employees in finding their next role.

Non-Compete and Non-Disclosure Agreements In some cases, a termination package will include legal agreements such as non-compete or non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). These contracts limit the employee's ability to work with competitors or share confidential company information. In exchange for signing these agreements, employers may offer additional compensation.

Release of Claims Many employers will include a release of claims in the termination package, which means the employee agrees not to sue the company for wrongful termination or other claims in exchange for the severance payment. It's important for employees to review this part carefully, as it can impact their legal rights.

Factors That Affect the Value of a Termination Package

Several factors determine the size and structure of a termination package:

Length of Employment: Employees with a long tenure are typically offered more generous packages.

Employment Contract: Some employees have contracts that specifically outline the severance terms, making it easier to determine what is owed upon termination.

Company Policy: Many organizations have policies in place that govern how termination packages are calculated.

Reason for Termination: If termination is due to restructuring, layoffs, or mergers, packages are often more generous than in cases of termination for cause, where severance may not be offered.

Legal Rights and Protections

In Canada, termination packages are regulated by both federal and provincial laws, such as the Employment Standards Act (ESA) in Ontario. Employers must adhere to minimum notice requirements, which are based on the employee’s length of service. The ESA outlines basic standards, including the minimum notice period and severance pay requirements for certain employees.

It's important to note that severance pay is separate from termination notice or pay in lieu of notice. While termination notice refers to the advance notice an employer must give before terminating an employee, severance pay is additional compensation provided to employees with long service records. Employees should be aware of their rights under the law and review the termination package to ensure compliance with provincial or federal regulations.

What to Do When Offered a Termination Package

Review the Terms Carefully Never rush to accept the first offer. Take the time to review all components of the termination package, ensuring you understand the financial compensation and any legal obligations you may be agreeing to, such as signing a non-compete agreement.

Consult an Employment Lawyer An employment lawyer can help you assess whether the severance package is fair and complies with local employment laws. They can also negotiate on your behalf if the offer falls short of what you're entitled to.

Understand Your Rights Know your rights under employment law. Certain entitlements, such as severance pay, may be guaranteed based on your years of service, job level, and the nature of your employment contract.

Negotiate If Necessary If the initial offer doesn't meet your expectations or legal entitlements, don’t be afraid to negotiate. Employers often leave room for negotiation, especially if the package offered is below market standards.

Final Thoughts

Understanding your termination package is critical in securing your financial stability after job loss. It’s essential to carefully review the package, consider legal advice, and ensure you receive what you're entitled to based on your employment contract and applicable laws. By being informed, you can navigate this difficult situation with confidence and ensure a smoother transition to the next chapter in your career.

[wutbju]

According to BJU, after a meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 4, officials reviewed the budgets in the university leading to the decision to eliminate some positions and the baseball program at the school. BJU's public relations director, Courtney Montgomery, said, "Affected employees have been offered outplacement services. Individualized options for student-athletes are being pursued. These actions were necessitated by an anticipated $5.5 million loss in revenue over the next two years." "The University has no debt, and our cash position remains strong. While difficult, these corrective actions are necessary to ensure the University’s ability to deliver our mission into the next century," Montgomery added. "We remain committed to supporting our faculty, staff and students and to delivering the high-quality education for which Bob Jones University is known,” Montgomery stated. Other men's sports are still offered at the school, including basketball, soccer, cross-country, golf, and track and field. BJU also offers several sports for women, including basketball, soccer, cross country, track and field, and volleyball.

[personalrecruiters]

Transforming Job Searches with My Personal Recruiter: A New Era in Career Development

At My Personal Recruiter, we're reshaping the job search landscape to empower individuals around the globe to discover careers that truly resonate with their passions and skills. Our mission is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential and find professional fulfillment. By leveraging cutting-edge reverse recruiting and outplacement solutions, we aim to bridge the gap between job seekers and their ideal employers, fostering a world where every person can pursue their dream career path. 

Empowering Job Seekers with Innovative Solutions 🌟 

In a competitive job market, finding the right career can feel like navigating a labyrinth. Traditional job search methods often leave candidates overwhelmed and underprepared. That's where My Personal Recruiter comes in. We offer a fresh perspective on job searching with our innovative reverse recruiting approach. Unlike conventional recruiting, where candidates apply to employers, reverse recruiting flips the script. Our model positions job seekers at the forefront, letting them shine directly in front of potential employers who are actively seeking their unique skill sets and experiences. 

The Reverse Recruiting Advantage 🔄 

Reverse recruiting is at the heart of our strategy, and it transforms the job search process in several impactful ways: 

Increased Visibility: By showcasing their profiles through our platform, candidates gain visibility among a network of employers who are actively looking for their specific talents. This targeted exposure significantly enhances their chances of landing roles that align with their career goals. 

Personalized Matching: Our reverse recruiting system uses advanced algorithms and personalized data to match candidates with opportunities that suit their skills and aspirations. This ensures that job seekers are not just applying for any job but are connected with roles that truly fit their career trajectory. 

Streamlined Process: Traditional job searches can be time-consuming and frustrating. Our approach simplifies the process by directly connecting candidates with employers who are already interested, reducing the time spent on job applications and interviews. 

Outplacement Services for a Smooth Transition 🔄🚀 

For individuals navigating career transitions, whether due to layoffs, restructuring, or personal choices, our outplacement services provide essential support. We understand that transitioning between jobs can be challenging, and our goal is to make this process as smooth and efficient as possible. Here’s how our outplacement services stand out: 

Career Coaching: Our expert career coaches work one-on-one with individuals to refine their job search strategies, enhance their resumes, and prepare for interviews. This personalized guidance helps candidates present themselves in the best possible light to potential employers. 

Market Insights: Staying informed about industry trends and job market dynamics is crucial during a career transition. We provide valuable insights and advice on current market conditions, helping individuals make informed decisions about their career paths. 

Networking Opportunities: Building and leveraging a professional network can significantly impact job search success. We connect our clients with a broad network of industry professionals, facilitating valuable connections that can lead to new job opportunities. 

A Commitment to Career Fulfillment 🌐💼 

At My Personal Recruiter, our commitment goes beyond simply finding a job; we are dedicated to helping individuals achieve career fulfillment. We believe that a job should be more than just a paycheck—it should be a source of satisfaction and a reflection of one’s personal and professional values. 

To support this vision, we offer resources and tools designed to help candidates: 

Identify Their Strengths: Understanding one's unique skills and strengths is key to finding a fulfilling career. Our assessments and coaching sessions help individuals gain clarity on what they excel at and what they enjoy doing. 

Explore Career Options: With guidance from our experts, candidates can explore a wide range of career options and industries, discovering paths they may not have previously considered. 

Set and Achieve Career Goals: We assist individuals in setting realistic and achievable career goals, providing the support needed to reach them. 

[integrativepsychotherapytoronto]

Severance Package Design: Tailoring Solutions for Different Scenarios

In today’s ever-changing business landscape, severance packages are an essential component of any company’s human resource strategy. These packages not only ensure that departing employees are treated fairly and respectfully but also protect the organization from potential legal issues. Crafting an effective severance package requires a tailored approach, considering the unique circumstances of each situation. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to design severance packages for different scenarios.

Understanding the Basics of Severance Packages

A severance package typically includes financial compensation and other benefits provided to an employee upon termination of employment. These benefits may include extended health insurance, job placement assistance, and more. The primary goal is to support the employee during their transition period while also safeguarding the company’s interests.

Key Elements of a Severance Package

Financial Compensation: This is usually the most significant part of the package, often based on the employee’s length of service and salary. It may include a lump sum payment or periodic payments.

Health and Welfare Benefits: Extending health insurance coverage and other benefits can provide essential support during the transition.

Outplacement Services: Offering job placement assistance, resume writing services, and career counseling can help employees find new opportunities more quickly.

Non-Compete and Confidentiality Agreements: These clauses protect the company’s proprietary information and prevent the departing employee from joining competitors immediately.

Legal Release: A legal release is often included to protect the company from future lawsuits related to the termination.

Tailoring Severance Packages for Different Scenarios

1. Voluntary Resignations

For employees who resign voluntarily, severance packages are generally less comprehensive. However, it’s still beneficial to offer some level of support to ensure goodwill and maintain a positive relationship.

Financial Compensation: Typically minimal, but may include accrued vacation pay.

Benefits Extension: Short-term extension of health benefits.

Outplacement Services: Basic job search support.

2. Involuntary Terminations

In cases of involuntary terminations due to performance issues or restructuring, a more comprehensive package is often necessary.

Financial Compensation: Based on tenure and salary, often more generous.

Benefits Extension: Continued health insurance for a specified period.

Outplacement Services: Full job placement assistance and career counseling.

Legal Release: Critical to avoid potential lawsuits.

3. Retirement

When employees retire, severance packages often include benefits that acknowledge their years of service and contribution to the company.

Financial Compensation: May include a retirement bonus.

Benefits Extension: Long-term health benefits and possible life insurance.

Outplacement Services: Assistance with financial planning and retirement advice.

4. Layoffs and Redundancies

Layoffs and redundancies require sensitive handling due to the broader impact on the workforce.

Financial Compensation: Generous packages based on tenure and salary.

Benefits Extension: Extended health benefits and possibly continued pension contributions.

Outplacement Services: Comprehensive job placement services and emotional support programs.

Legal Release: Essential to mitigate the risk of mass litigation.

5. Executive Terminations

Executives often have complex severance agreements due to their high level of responsibility and influence.

Financial Compensation: Substantial packages, often including bonuses and stock options.

Benefits Extension: Extensive health and welfare benefits.

Outplacement Services: High-level career transition services and possibly personal coaching.

Non-Compete and Confidentiality Agreements: Rigorous clauses to protect the company’s interests.

Legal Release: Detailed and robust to prevent high-stakes litigation.

Conclusion

Designing a severance package that is fair, comprehensive, and tailored to the specific circumstances of each termination scenario is crucial for maintaining a positive organizational culture and protecting the company from potential legal issues. By considering the unique needs of each situation—whether it’s a voluntary resignation, involuntary termination, retirement, layoff, or executive departure—companies can create effective severance packages that support both their departing employees and their long-term business goals.

[spectrumtalentmanagement]

Effective outplacement services are crucial during layoffs, ensuring support for transitioning employees and maintaining employer branding. Read more in this insightful blog authored by Sumit Sarabhai, Chief Business Officer at Spectrum Talent Management.

[inkedsimply]

What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You?

In today's dynamic job market, navigating career transitions can be challenging. Whether you're an individual in the midst of a career change or an organization undergoing restructuring, the concept of outplacement can play a crucial role in facilitating a smooth transition for all parties involved. What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You? Let's delve into this important aspect of career management to understand its significance and potential advantages.

Outplacement refers to the support provided by companies to employees who are transitioning out of the organization due to layoffs, restructuring, or other reasons. It encompasses a range of services aimed at assisting these individuals in finding new employment opportunities and navigating the job market successfully. What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You? This question often arises when discussing career transitions, and understanding its components is essential for both employers and employees.

One of the primary benefits of outplacement is its role in easing the emotional and financial burden associated with job loss. Losing a job can be a stressful experience, impacting one's confidence and well-being. However, with outplacement support, individuals receive guidance and resources to cope with the transition effectively. Recruitment Agency in India By providing access to career coaching, resume writing assistance, and job search strategies, outplacement services empower individuals to bounce back from setbacks and pursue new opportunities with confidence.

Moreover, outplacement demonstrates an organization's commitment to its employees' well-being, even during challenging times. By offering support beyond severance packages, companies foster a positive employer brand and maintain goodwill among both current and former employees. What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You? This proactive approach to employee transitions not only enhances morale within the organization but also strengthens its reputation in the industry and the broader community.

From a strategic standpoint, outplacement can also yield long-term benefits for businesses. By assisting displaced employees in finding new roles swiftly, organizations minimize the negative impact on productivity and morale. Additionally, outplacement services can help protect the company's brand and mitigate potential legal risks associated with layoffs.

 What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You? Through effective career transition support, companies demonstrate integrity and empathy, which can contribute to maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders and preserving organizational culture.

Recruitment agencies in India play a vital role in the outplacement process by connecting displaced employees with relevant job opportunities in the market. These agencies have extensive networks and industry expertise, allowing them to match candidates with suitable roles efficiently. What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You? By leveraging the services of recruitment agencies in India, individuals can access a broader range of job prospects and receive personalized assistance tailored to their skills and career goals.

Furthermore, outplacement services offered through recruitment agencies in India often include resume optimization, interview preparation, and access to exclusive job listings. This comprehensive support equips individuals with the tools and insights needed to stand out in a competitive job market.

 What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You? Whether exploring new career paths or re-entering the workforce after a hiatus, the guidance provided by recruitment agencies in India can significantly enhance an individual's job search experience and prospects for success.

In addition to assisting individuals in securing new employment, outplacement services can also support entrepreneurial endeavors and alternative career paths. For those considering self-employment or freelancing, outplacement consultants can offer guidance on business planning, marketing strategies, and networking opportunities. What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You? By exploring diverse avenues beyond traditional employment, individuals can uncover new possibilities for professional fulfillment and financial independence.

Employers stand to gain from outplacement services as well, as they contribute to a smoother transition process and minimize disruptions within the organization. By partnering with reputable outplacement providers or recruitment agencies in India, companies can ensure that departing employees receive adequate support while maintaining focus on business objectives. What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You? Through proactive planning and compassionate execution, organizations can mitigate the negative impact of workforce changes and uphold their commitment to employee welfare.

Moreover, investing in outplacement reflects positively on an organization's employer brand and corporate social responsibility efforts. By demonstrating care and support for employees throughout their career journey, companies enhance their reputation as responsible and empathetic employers. What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You? This, in turn, can attract top talent, improve employee retention, and foster a positive organizational culture built on trust and mutual respect.

In conclusion, outplacement plays a pivotal role in supporting individuals during career transitions and facilitating a positive experience for both employees and employers alike. What is Outplacement and How It Can Benefit You? From providing emotional and financial support to fostering professional development and networking opportunities, outplacement services offer valuable assistance to individuals navigating job loss or career changes. By partnering with reputable outplacement providers or recruitment agencies in India, organizations can uphold their commitment to employee welfare and maintain a positive employer brand in the competitive job market landscape.

[ciooutlookmagazine]

Google Laid off Dozens of Employees in its News Division

In a strategic move, Google has reportedly downsized its news division, cutting approximately 40 to 45 jobs, according to a spokesperson from the Alphabet Workers Union. The news comes at a critical juncture for online platforms and publishers, heightening concerns about the information ecosystem during sensitive global events.

A Google spokesperson confirmed the layoffs but refrained from disclosing the exact number, emphasizing that the company remains committed to fostering a vibrant information ecosystem. The affected employees, numbering in the tens, are being supported with a transition period, outplacement services, and severance as they explore new opportunities.

Google News, a platform that aggregates links to articles from a myriad of publishers and magazines, has been a popular tool for users relying on Google search to discover top-ranked stories on specific topics. The downsizing of Google’s news division is noteworthy amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts, such as the Israel-Hamas war and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which have led to a surge in the spread of misinformation.

Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado recently sought information on how major platforms, including Google, are addressing false and misleading content related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. European Union industry chief Thierry Breton also urged companies like Google to take stricter measures against disinformation in light of the escalating conflict, emphasizing content moderation requirements under the EU’s Digital Services Act.

While the internal changes at Google have affected several departments this year, the recent downsizing in the news division follows earlier layoffs in January, where the company announced a cut of 12,000 jobs, impacting around 6% of the full-time workforce. Last month, Google eliminated hundreds of positions from its recruiting organization.

Expressing solidarity with the affected employees, a staff engineer at Google News took to LinkedIn, describing them as some of the best and brightest individuals. The move to downsize Google’s news division raises questions about the company’s role in ensuring a reliable and quality information flow, especially during periods of heightened global tensions.

These internal changes at Google highlight the ongoing challenges faced by tech companies in balancing workforce management while maintaining effective measures against misinformation in the current complex geopolitical landscape.

Read More: https://ciooutlookmagazine.com/google-laid-off-dozens-of-employees-in-its-news-division/

[human-resources-india]

Outplacement Services: Empowering Career Transitions and Supporting Employees

Introduction : Outplacement services provide critical support and guidance to individuals undergoing career transitions, often as a result of layoffs, restructuring, or organizational changes. These services assist employees in finding new job opportunities, navigating the job market, and developing the necessary skills for a successful transition. This article explores the importance of outplacement services and how they empower individuals during challenging career transitions.

Job Search Support and Guidance : Outplacement services offer valuable assistance in navigating the job search process. Experienced career coaches and consultants provide guidance on resume writing, interview preparation, and networking strategies. They help individuals identify their strengths, explore career options, and develop a personalized job search plan. Outplacement services also provide access to job boards, industry connections, and job leads, expanding the candidate's opportunities and visibility in the job market. This support helps individuals regain confidence, stay motivated, and accelerate their job search process.

Career Assessment and Skill Development : Outplacement services provide individuals with the opportunity to assess their skills, interests, and career goals. Career assessments help individuals gain clarity about their strengths and areas for development, enabling them to make informed career decisions. Outplacement programs often include professional development workshops and training sessions to enhance job readiness and competitiveness. These programs focus on improving skills such as networking, personal branding, and leveraging online platforms for job search. By investing in skill development, outplacement services equip individuals with the tools and knowledge necessary to excel in their career transitions.

Emotional and Psychological Support : Losing a job can be a challenging and emotional experience. Outplacement services recognize the importance of providing emotional support during this period of transition. They offer counseling and coaching sessions to help individuals cope with the emotional impact of job loss, manage stress, and maintain a positive mindset. By addressing the emotional well-being of individuals, outplacement services enable them to navigate the transition more effectively and move forward with confidence.

Personalized Career Coaching : Outplacement services provide one-on-one career coaching to support individuals in their career transition journey. Career coaches help individuals identify their transferable skills, explore alternative career paths, and develop strategies for career advancement. These personalized coaching sessions offer valuable insights, guidance, and feedback tailored to the individual's specific needs and goals. Coaches also help individuals build their professional networks, tap into hidden job markets, and leverage their personal brand. By partnering with career coaches, individuals gain the necessary support and expertise to navigate their career transitions successfully.

Positive Impact on Employer Brand and Employee Morale : Offering outplacement services not only benefits transitioning employees but also reflects positively on the employer. Providing support during career transitions demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and fosters a positive employer brand. It sends a message that the organization values its employees and is invested in their long-term success. Outplacement services also contribute to maintaining employee morale among retained employees, alleviating anxiety and fear associated with job insecurity. This, in turn, can lead to increased loyalty, motivation, and productivity within the organization.

Conclusion : Outplacement services play a vital role in supporting individuals during challenging career transitions. By providing job search support, career assessment, emotional guidance, and personalized coaching, these services empower individuals to navigate the job market with confidence. Furthermore, offering outplacement services demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and positively impacts employer brand and employee morale.

[new-haryanvi-ragni]

Layoffs 2023: US companies cut more than 180,000 jobs in two months amid fears of global recession

A report from Challenger, Gray & Christmas, a firm that provides outplacement services to executives, reveals that in the past two months, a number of companies in the United States have cut jobs due to concerns over a global recession, resulting in more than 180,000 employees losing their jobs. In January, US companies cut 1,02,943 jobs, while 77,770 staff cuts were made in February. Among them,…

[outplacementmitt]

in the wake of millions of layoffs and furloughs around the country, corporations' primary priorities are to stay in business and pay their employees. Make sure to look for the right services for Outplacement Karlsruhe.

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Layoffs are cyclical and take place periodically. It depends on a multitude of factors like economic conditions, industry changes, disruptions, and performance. In some years, a lot of these factors come together and in others only a few. Some organisations may decide that since production is at a halt, workmen may be the group to be affected. Others may reason that with a slowdown, maybe support services are the right group to get impacted.

Joel Paul, India general manager for outplacement services firm Randstad RiseSmart