One of the responsibilities of a human resources professional is to let employees know that their job has been eliminated. It is seldom easy to do and often painful for the person who is hearing the news.
Just recently, I was involved in communicating a large layoff to employees at a Fortune 500 company. I sat with one woman after she had heard the news to tell her about the career transition services she could take advantage of. The woman was in shock and not ready to hear about transition services for her self. She said out loud several times, "How am I going to tell my kids this?"
When I asked her why she would not want to tell her kids, she said that her teenage son had been having a hard year in school and she did not want to upset him. She asked my advice.
Recently, my mother-in-law died. Losing a loved one and losing a job have similarities. Both involve losing something you love. Both involve change. I thought back to how my husband and I told our children that their grandmother had died. I remembered that we told them the truth, answered their questions and assured them that we would stay a strong family.
If you lose your job, here are some pointers for how to tell your children.
Finally, realize that your children will be closely watching how you handle this challenge in your life. When they see you bounce back from a setback, it will give them confidence to do the same in their lives.
I told the woman I was counseling to tell her son the truth. To tell him how she was feeling. To tell him that she would be okay. To tell him that he would be okay. And to tell him that she loves him.
About The Author
Judith Lindenberger has more than 15 years experience in human resources consulting and is recognized for her innovation and excellence. The Lindenberger Group, LLC supports in-house HR operations by helping you hire, assess, develop and retain the most talented employees quickly, successfully and cost-effectively. We also work with individuals to help you navigate your career. Visit our website at www.lindenbergergroup.com to learn why more individuals and employers are choosing us. Call us at 609.730.1049 or email us at info@lindenbergergroup.com.
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