Layoff Toolkit

Tools to Facilitate Compassionate, Compliant Transitions

With job cuts continuing to rise, HR teams are being asked to lead these moments with precision and empathy. This toolkit provides the structure and language needed to do both.

Layoff Toolkit

Conducting a layoff is one of the most difficult responsibilities in HR. It sits at the intersection of legal risk, financial pressure, and real human impact. This toolkit is designed to help HR leaders guide reductions in force with preparation, clarity, and care while protecting dignity, trust, and the organization’s long-term health.

Why This Toolkit Matters

A poorly handled layoff creates lasting damage, including legal exposure, loss of trust, disengagement among remaining employees, and long-term brand harm. A well-run layoff protects people, stabilizes the organization, and preserves culture during a difficult transition.

This resource gives HR a clear roadmap so decisions are defensible, communication is consistent, and employees are treated with respect at every stage.

What’s Inside

Before: Preparation and Compliance

  • Objective selection criteria to reduce bias and legal risk
  • Legal compliance checklist including WARN, OWBPA, and adverse impact analysis
  • Severance package planning and consistency guidance

During: Notification Phase

  • Logistics planning for in-person and remote notifications
  • A clear, respectful notification script
  • Guidance on what not to say to avoid harm or false reassurance

After: Managing the Impact

  • Survivor town hall framework to address anxiety and uncertainty
  • Re-recruiting strategies to retain top talent
  • Support guidance for productivity, morale, and trust rebuilding

Risk Strategy and HR Checklists

  • Business size specific risk matrix
  • Preparation checklist for the weeks leading up to a layoff
  • Day-of execution checklist for HR
  • Post-layoff checklist to ensure compliance and recovery

Who This Toolkit Is For

  • HR leaders managing reductions in force
  • Organizations navigating restructuring or financial pressure
  • HR teams seeking a structured, humane approach to layoffs
  • Leaders responsible for protecting culture during transition

The Outcome

This toolkit helps HR lead layoffs with professionalism and humanity. With the right preparation and tools, HR can reduce risk, support employees through change, and protect the organization’s future.

A compassionate layoff is not soft. It is strategic, responsible, and necessary.