Introduction

Layoffs may balance budgets, but the way companies handle them can damage employer branding for years. Too often, leaders overlook the reputational fallout, focusing only on cost savings instead of trust.

Top Mistakes

1. Cold Communication
   Mass emails or abrupt Zoom calls dehumanize employees and erode morale.
2. Ignoring Survivors
   Remaining employees feel anxious and disengaged if leaders don’t address their concerns.
3. Mixed Messaging
   When internal communication doesn’t align with external statements, credibility is lost.
4. Silence on Social Media
   Failing to address public sentiment allows critics to control the narrative.

How to Avoid Them

• Lead with transparency and empathy.
• Provide resources for departing employees.
• Communicate consistently across platforms.
• Show a vision for the future.

Pull Quote: “The layoff itself won’t define you—but how you communicate it will.”

Call to Action

If your company is planning layoffs and wants to protect its brand, I can help develop a communication strategy that balances honesty with empathy.

👉 Contact me at stephanie@bggenterprises.com.