Overview:
Workforce reductions - layoffs and reductions in force (RIFs) - are among the most difficult decisions leaders face-especially when driven by economic pressures, restructuring, or business realignment. While layoffs are not specifically performance-based terminations, they carry significant legal, operational, and human risks if handled improperly.
Areas Covered in the Session:
- Understand the legal framework surrounding layoffs, including federal and state considerations such as discrimination laws, WARN Act obligations, and retaliation risks
- Distinguish layoffs from performance-based terminations and why that distinction matters legally and culturally
- Identify the legal and practical risks of poor layoff decision-making, including disparate impact and wrongful termination claims
- Apply fair, objective, and defensible criteria when selecting employees for layoffs
- Communicate layoff decisions clearly and compassionately, using structured messaging and sample conversations
- Prepare documentation and severance materials to reduce risk and support compliance
- Manage post-layoff responsibilities, including morale, survivor engagement, and organizational integrity
Who Will Benefit: