Beyond Layoff Notices: Proactive Strategies for Workforce Stability

Workforce reductions are sometimes a necessary response to economic pressures, but there are strategies to save jobs—and potentially the entire company—with layoff aversion. Comprehensive rapid response services include layoff aversion and other strategies to help mitigate the risk of layoffs, downsizing, and closures. There are even federal and state programs to assist in the process. Employers in the Gulf Coast have a strategic partner—Workforce Solutions—to identify strategies and incentives to proactively avoid layoffs.

Strategic Workforce Planning

Proactive workforce planning involves regularly assessing the current state of the business and employee skills against future market projections. It identifies potential gaps early, so employers can ride through turbulent times. Through strategic workforce planning, employers can pivot their talent development and training programs to align with evolving market demands. Planning can prevent layoffs—or worse, closings.

What is Layoff Aversion?

There is a federal definition of layoff aversion and specific steps and strategies to assist with aversion efforts. In a nutshell, it’s a way for employers to prevent or minimize layoffs, overcome business challenges, and stay in business. This may be through on-the-job training, shared work programs, partnerships and federal assistance programs, or even structured employee buyout plans. It all starts with a confidential consultation with experts, a full analysis of the business challenges, and a range of tailored rapid response solutions.

On The Job Training: Improving Adaptability

One of the most-used strategies is on the job training. These are reimbursable or subsidized programs that invest in the company’s future and the employees’ growth. By providing training for new technologies or processes, businesses can adapt to changes without reducing headcount. This proactive response encourages a culture of learning and adaptability, which are critical for building resilience. There are also federal and state programs to put training into action.

Shared Work Programs

Shared work initiatives are an innovative way to manage temporary downturns. These programs allow companies to retain their workforce at reduced hours, with the understanding that when business improves, employees will return to full-time status. For example, work hours can be reduced 10%–40%, with unemployment benefits offsetting the wage reductions. These programs are a collaborative effort between employers, employees, and the state, where payroll is reduced without sacrificing employee income.

Planning for Market Shifts

Proactively understanding the regional market is another way to mitigate layoffs. Are there supplier issues or policies coming down the pike that will create economic hardships? Companies can stay ahead of downturns by exploring new markets, developing relationships with potential partners and new suppliers, and reducing dependence on a single source of revenue. Consulting with a regional workforce team like Workforce Solutions can identify opportunities to adjust to market trends before they affect the business.

Connect with Critical Funding Partners

Training programs and work share programs are two subsidized ways to help prevent layoffs, but there are more. Economic development organizations exist at the federal, state, and local levels to support businesses and help prevent layoffs. There are also trade organizations, such as the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program and Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), that may be able to help. Qualification depends on several factors, and Workforce Solutions can help identify relevant programs.

There are proactive ways to help avoid layoffs and keep companies afloat during rocky times. Having a plan before things get rough can be the difference between a company’s survival or closure. Workforce Solutions consultants are here to help navigate these challenges and create plans that protect the company and its employees.

Contact us today to schedule a confidential appointment with one of our business consultants.