Category Archives: Reduce the Impact of Layoffs

Stephen Viscusi, author of the book “Bulletproof Your Job: Four Strategies to Ride Out the Tough Times and Come Out on Top at Work”, says the key to staying employed is:

Be visible, even if it means giving up telecommuting. Be easy, even if it means negotiating a reduced salary. Be useful, even if it means volunteering for assignments no one else wants. Be ready to jump ship if opportunities outside your company become available. Here are 5 other ways to improve your chances of not being laid off from work: Constantly demonstrate your value to your company.

Look for opportunities to showcase your talents and special skills. Focus your work on high priority assignments that have the greatest impact on your company’s bottom line. When you do this, you greatly reduce your chances of being laid off from work. Promote your accomplishments.

Don’t assume your boss (or other execs) … Continue reading Tips to Reduce Your Chances of
Being Laid Off From Work →

Jennifer asks: My employees are spending a lot of time worrying about cutbacks in staff, salaries, benefits, even working hours. I’m afraid we’re losing our edge. How can I keep my employees motivated in a bad economy?

Coach Joel answers: This may seem challenging when you are facing negative circumstances that are beyond your control. However, it can also be an opportunity for some serious team building, a chance to take your team to the next level.

Layoffs can be traumatic, not only for those who leave the payroll, but for the so-called “survivors” who often find themselves not only picking up the pieces, but also the additional work of their departed coworkers.

It can be tough to keep yourself and those around you motivated during this difficult period. But here are some tips that might help.

1 – Identify what is positive now.

Even though the current situation may look … Continue reading How to Keep Employees Motivated During Tough Times →

With the wake of layoffs and company downsizing, it’s becoming more and more difficult for the surviving employees. They are turning into refugees, mourning lost colleagues as they wait themselves for the final curtain to close on this chapter in their working career. One client recently told me, “I’ve been struggling a lot these days in the aftermath of recent deep layoffs. Even though I’m still here collecting a pretty amazing salary, I can’t help but feel alone without the friendship and support of my closest peers.”

During Company Downsizing – How to Thrive While Others Get Laid Off

So how can you thrive when others are being laid off? When downsizing occurs at your company, what can you do?

I remember when we had one of the worst fires in Northern California and an entire neighborhood was completely demolished with only one house left standing. Did the owners of … Continue reading Layoffs and Company Downsizing
Help the Surviving Employees →