Chambers Ireland HR Policy Council has recently released a Smarter Business Guide to Best Practice in Outplacement. Outplacement is the process of assisting employees cease employment usually as result of forced business change (e.g. redundancy). The guide provides a range of strategies for employers forced to reduce their headcount by helping managers support their employees during what can be a very difficult time.

The guide identifies five key principles of best practice in outplacement:

1. Access to clear and understandable information;
2. Access to resources;
3. Expert advice;
4. Training and development; and
5. Supporting staff in gaining new employment.

According to John Forde, Council Chair, “The Council developed this guide to provide practical advice to help employers design effective outplacement programmes and provide support to staff during periods of downsizing. It is something that any company can do regardless of size or turnover and accords with best practice in terms of good corporate and social responsibility. Outplacement programmes can be as broad or as narrow as the business can afford – the key resource required is time and someone to oversee the process."

To download a copy of the guide, please click here.

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