3. Offer Support, Not Just Severance
A paycheck alone doesn’t define your duty. Offering meaningful support — career coaching, health benefits extensions, networking introductions — sends a strong message that your brand values people, not just performance.
Example: Shopify’s 2023 layoffs came with generous severance and access to outplacement services, which softened the media coverage considerably.
When companies respond to layoff backlash with concrete steps to help affected workers, it shows integrity in action.
4. Align Internal and External Messaging
Nothing breaks trust faster than telling the public one story while telling employees another. Misalignment between internal emails and external press releases creates confusion — and invites whistleblowing.
Ensure all messaging is unified. Leadership should be prepared to answer tough questions from both employees and the media.
Example: Google’s 2023 layoffs were criticized not just for the decision, but because many employees found out through news reports before hearing from their managers.
Transparency and alignment should be part of your communication strategy from day one.
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