title: Preparing for a layoff: a difficult task that requires thorough planning.
abstract: Preparing for a layoff requires thorough planning, creativity, foresight, sensitivity, and leadership. Executing a layoff plan requires analyzing the internal operations objectively, cooperating and following-up on resulting system changes to ensure a smooth transition, and communicating frequently with the employees during this stressful period. Contrary to common beliefs, a layoff may not be an entirely negative experience since today's changes create tomorrow's opportunities. Leaders who make these tough decisions must have the foresight to see the potentially positive outcomes once the remaining departmental staff and functions become stabilized.
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D004651:Employment; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D010557:Personnel Administration, Hospital; D010934:Planning Techniques; D014481:United States