HR Glossary

Layoff

What is a layoff?

A layoff is a termination of employment initiated by the employer. It is often used as a last resort to reduce costs, when there is no other way to avoid layoffs. A layoff may be voluntary, as when an employee agrees to leave the company in exchange for a severance package, or it may be involuntary, as when the company lays off employees without their consent.

What are the different types of layoff?

There are different types of layoffs, but the most common are involuntary and voluntary. Involuntary layoffs are when employees are laid off because the company has to reduce its workforce. Voluntary layoffs are when employees choose to leave the company because they have been offered a severance package. Other types of layoffs include downsizing, right-sizing, and natural attrition. Downsizing is when the company reduces its workforce by firing employees. Right-sizing is when the company reduces its workforce by not replacing employees who leave. Natural attrition is when employees retire or die and their positions are not filled.

How do you lay off an employee?

There are a number of ways to lay off an employee, but the most common is to terminate the employee’s employment contract. This can be done in a number of ways, including but not limited to the following:

  • Firing the employee
  • Terminating the employee’s contract
  • Downsizing the employee
  • Laying off the employee
  • Terminating the employee’s assignment
  • Releasing the employee

Why do companies implement layoffs?

There are a variety of reasons why companies may choose to implement layoffs. One reason may be to reduce the company’s overall costs. By reducing the number of employees, the company may be able to save money on things like salary and benefits costs. Another reason may be to improve the company’s performance. By removing employees who are not performing well or who are not a good fit for the company, the company may be able to improve its overall productivity. A third reason may be to restructure the company. By downsizing certain departments or eliminating certain positions, the company may be able to restructure its operations in a way that makes it more efficient. Finally, a company may implement layoffs in order to improve its competitive position. By reducing its costs and becoming more efficient, the company may be able to compete more effectively in the marketplace.

Subscribe

Stay one step ahead.

Be the first to hear about tips, tricks and data-driven best practices for HR professionals.