When a person loses their job through a layoff, it can be very difficult. A layoff happens when an employer reduces their workforce, usually to save costs. It is involuntary and the employee loses their job through no fault of their own.
Understanding layoffs
Many organizations may have layoffs at some point, but they can cause worry and uncertainty for employees. Layoffs can happen if a company has financial challenges, a restructuring or if technological advancements change the company’s need for as many employees. Sometimes, layoffs are applied to a group within the company or just to a few individuals.
It’s helpful for companies to have open, honest communication with their employees about the layoff and provide them with resources to find a new job. This may include severance pay, continued benefits and career coaching services.
Layoff disputes
There are several disputes that can arise during a layoff. This may happen if the employee believes that they were wrongfully terminated or that the layoff violated an aspect of their employment agreement.
Employees may state that they were discriminated against based on their age, gender, race or for another protected reason. They may also claim that they were not given adequate notice of the layoff. Also, they may raise concerns that they were not paid enough severance or benefits.
Finally, if the company offers to reassign the employee instead of laying them off, the employee may believe that the position does not match their current role, either in salary or responsibility.
If a person needs help to resolve a layoff dispute, there is help available.