When Layoffs Are the New Normal

Layoffs are increasing (according to HR Dive, last month’s were the most in 22 years). So, we’re covering them in this episode. Today:

• Intro Story: This week’s Happy Hour starts with a look back at how layoffs used to happen - when they were rare, planned with (at least some) care, and treated like the serious decision they are. Leigh shares a story about what’s really like to deliver the news.

• Cringe Corporate Speak: We had this corporate speak sent in by a Bestie (the wonderful California HR expert Cindy O’Peka) - and Jamie suggests a much less (or maybe more, if you live in Italy) version of the saying.

• Hot Topic: We’re talking layoffs - by email, AI “efficiency,” and a corporate world that sometimes feels like it’s hitting the easy button without thinking through the fallout. This episode isn’t all doom and gloom though - we talk about what leaders can do differently, the lasting impact of layoffs on culture and trust, and creative ways organizations can rethink cost-cutting before they start cutting people.

• Questions and Comments: What to do for those you know who have been laid off recently (or a while ago).

Discussion Guide (for Your Team or Podcast Club)

• What are some alternatives to layoffs you wish organizations would consider?

• How can leaders communicate tough changes in ways that build - not break - trust?

• When a decision feels (or is called) “necessary,” how do we make sure it’s also human?

ChatGPT Prompts of the Week

Professional:

• Help me draft an outline for a “hard conversation” that still shows empathy and respect.

• Give me five creative cost-cutting ideas that don’t involve layoffs.

Personal(ish):

• Turn my favorite comfort food into a metaphor for how I handle stress. (“Come to Spaghetti” energy, anyone?)

Cheers to all the Besties we met in Vegas last week! And cheers to you for reading. It’s getting chilly out, so grab some chili, wrap up in a blanket and listen in as we get real about layoffs, leadership and what empathy actually looks like.

XOXO,
The HR Besties

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