In today's working world, restructuring and redundancies have long been a reality for many companies. Despite this, separation processes often remain a taboo subject. But if human aspects are taken into account, a separation can not only succeed, but also serve as an opportunity for everyone involved.
Article by Abdullah Redzepi and Michael Hasler in südostschweizjobs.ch
Separation: a balancing act.
Separations are a difficult task for managers and HR teams. In addition to economic efficiency, they require above all empathy. The 2021 Kienbaum survey shows: Only 33 % of companies have a clear separation strategy, and only 26 % work with defined processes. This shows how unpredictable separations often are.
A successful separation culture is not a product of chance. Communication, clear responsibilities and respectful treatment of the remaining employees - the so-called "survivors" - are decisive factors. Companies that master this challenge maintain trust, even when parting ways.
Successful separation: the phases.
Successful severance management begins long before the termination meeting. In order to meet all challenges in the best possible way, it is important to proceed in a structured manner during the redundancy process and also take human factors into account. The separation process is typically divided into three phases:
Phase 1: Preparation & planning:
Thorough planning lays the foundation for a respectful separation process. In addition to operational requirements, the individual circumstances of the employees concerned must also be taken into account. Good preparation minimizes the risk of conflicts and misunderstandings.
Phase 2: Implementation & termination:
The moment of termination is crucial. Empathetic and clear communication is at the heart of this. It makes it easier for the affected employees to accept the separation and helps the remaining employees to maintain trust in the company management.
Phase 3: Stabilization & reorientation:
After the separation, the company must stabilize the remaining employees in order to ensure their well-being and maintain productivity. At the same time, outplacement supports the affected employees in their professional reorientation and facilitates the transition to new employment. This demonstrates social responsibility and strengthens the company's image.
Respectful separation: the path to new opportunities.
Separations often mark the end, but they can also pave the way for new beginnings. Companies that manage separations respectfully not only demonstrate flexibility, but also strengthen their innovative power and competitiveness. After all, a respectful separation culture has an impact far beyond the farewell. Professionally and empathetically implemented separations increase the satisfaction of the remaining employees and improve the employer brand. Word gets around and attracts talented people who fit in with the corporate philosophy.
A well thought-out separation culture is not only socially responsible, but also strategically smart. Fair and respectful separations strengthen employee loyalty and increase the company's attractiveness as an employer. Open communication, transparency and support are the cornerstones of a successful separation culture. Companies that actively shape the process secure long-term benefits - for themselves, their employees and society. A strong separation culture has a lasting effect and strengthens trust in the company as a responsible employer.
Deutsch 
English 
Français 
Italiano