In a recent article written by the Founder and CEO of JSA+Partners, a strategic communications firm specializing in consumer tech, digital media, and gaming companies, the importance of strategic communication during times of layoffs in the tech industry is highlighted. With nearly 57,000 job cuts in the tech sector already in 2024, it is crucial for companies to have a strong communications strategy in place to instill confidence and morale among employees, investors, and consumers post-layoffs.
The article provides four guiding principles for building a public relations roadmap that empowers an organization, its employees, and its stakeholders during layoffs. The first principle is to be prepared, emphasizing the importance of involving public relations leadership in layoff planning early to avoid mishaps such as leaks and disgruntled employee tweets. Communication teams should have a clear run of show on the day of layoffs, be prepared for tough questions, and track press and social media sentiment diligently to handle employee concerns swiftly.
The second guiding principle is to be empathetic, emphasizing the importance of treating employees with dignity and respect during layoffs. The article highlights the negative impact of disorganization and inconsideration in handling layoffs, and stresses the need for employees to hear about layoffs directly from their supervisors or company leadership to establish a safe space for communication and ensure a strong path forward post-layoffs.
The third principle is to prioritize transparency in communications around layoffs to avoid misinformation and speculation. Clear communication with employees, press, and the public helps cut out room for misinterpretation and confusion. Open communication channels also help address any self-reproach that unaffected employees may have following workforce reductions, creating a shared understanding for a more secure future.
The fourth guiding principle is to be consistent in messaging to avoid confusion and potential crises. Internal communications should be considered public-facing to prevent leaks and ensure a unified message across all communication channels. Consistent core messaging helps the company stay in lockstep with itself and prevents misunderstanding about the impact, scale, and reasons behind layoffs.
In conclusion, navigating layoffs with tact and empathy is essential for communications professionals. Thorough preparation, transparency, and consistency in messaging are crucial not only for shaping public perception but also for treating employees with respect, grace, and compassion during difficult times. By following these guiding principles, companies in the tech industry can navigate layoffs more effectively and support their employees through challenging transitions.
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