You are asked to report to the conference room for a department meeting. You learn that 10 of your team members’ positions have been eliminated. Those impacted are being notified down the hall. A collective sigh of relief swirls throughout the room. You listen intently to the explanations for the cuts and eventually wander back to your desk feeling dazed and relieved.
As you approach your cubicle, you notice Mike packing up family photos, juggling balls and his impressive collection of Sponge Bob toys. You have worked side by side with Mike for the past eight years. You cannot imagine getting your own job done without his expertise. You have no clue what to say. The silence is deafening.
How should one respond when a colleague has been handed a pink slip? Are there words that can heal or at least help in situations like these? These guidelines can help a displaced co-worker make a smooth transition out the door and into their next position.
Honor their contribution and talents Praise your colleagues for their amazing abilities and let it be known that things will not be the same without their expertise.
Listen Listen to your colleague if he needs to worry out loud about the job market, his graying temples, the college fund and how his wife will take the news. Don’t counter his fears and concerns, and don’t get enticed into a company bash session. Just listen.
It was a business decision Remind your colleague that these decisions are not personal. Companies lay off excellent employees and there is no blame or shame in the situation.
Offer assistance If company policy allows, offer to be a reference and a source of networking assistance during the job search. Write a recommendation on Linked In.
Make a lunch date Exchange personal contact information and make plans to meet up for lunch. When the date arrives, pick up the tab!
Being laid off, especially in this job market, is a very emotionally charged life event. It is difficult to know what to say or how to respond, especially when you are feeling guilty for being able to keep your own job. There are no easy answers but kindness goes a long way in situations like these.
