If your organization is in the difficult spot of having to let employees go, either for performance issues or a reduction in force, it’s a good idea to consider hiring an outplacement vendor to offer outplacement services for your exiting employee(s). There is very little downside to this benefit, and actually tremendous benefit to both the employee and your organization.

Here’s why:

It Fosters Goodwill

Outplacement services can offer invaluable insight, counseling, and support to someone on a job search – and with that help, your exited employee is more likely to end up in a great new role and feel positively about their transition from your organization. Negativity from ex-employees can do serious harm to your company, from social media slander to threats like lawsuits. It’s better to proactively try to prevent ill-will through offering encouraging job search assistance, which is only a minor investment that can yield really fantastic returns, such as maintaining healthy relationships with ex-employees.

It’s Economical

It really is only a minor investment – especially in comparison to a typical severance payout, outplacement services are reasonably inexpensive and can be included with a severance package or offered as a standalone benefit. Most outplacement providers will charge a flat fee per the number of employees who exit. At Purple Ink, our outplacement services can start as low as $200/person – plus, we’re different in that we only bill when that person initiates services, rather than up front.

It Betters Your Brand

Along with fostering goodwill with previous employees, your current employees will get wind of how employees are exited, and hearing that your company cares enough to provide a safety net for the tumultuous nature of a job search can increase current employees’ dedication and engagement. And ex-employees who feel fondly about how they were treated when they left can turn them from potential liabilities to valued brand ambassadors.

If you’re interested in learning more about offering outplacement services to employees who exit your company, feel free to contact us at Purple Ink. We’d be happy to help!