How can leaders support the “survivors” after layoffs?

The tech sector is seeing layoffs every week now- the latest being Hootsuite laying off 30% of its employees. It's been amazing to see how the tech sector network is reaching out to connect those skilled workers with new opportunities.

For the employees that kept their jobs through the layoffs, there are other challenges. Survivor guilt is real. We have to support them through increased level of stress, lost morale, insecurity and burnout as everyone adjusts. Studies show that productivity declines in nearly 75% of retained employees after a layoff; nearly 70% said that the quality of their company's product or service deteriorated. (hbr.org). 

What can tech leaders do to support these “survivors” - the remaining employees?  

1) Be honest in sharing the reasons for what's happened; provide clarity about the future where you can. Make sure you have answers ready about how workloads will be managed. 

2) Bring your teams together. Engage frequently and consistently both one-on-one and with impacted groups. Virtually, by phone or in person- when you show up, you show that they're valued. This isn't the time for team-building games; it's a time for listening.

3) When the dust clears, gather and respond to feedback. What are your employee's perceptions of what happened? How are they adjusting? What suggestions do they have going forward?

4) Engage at all levels to start a new conversation about the future. Be frank about the values and vision for the company- what hasn't changed? what is evolving? What have we learned? What are the new opportunities ahead?

There's no quick fix for leaders after a layoff, but these kinds of actions will help support your employees and rebuild the foundation for the future of your company.