layoff storm?

😰 The Ongoing Layoff Storm 

Layoff news never really disappeared. 🫥 Since the pandemic, employers have been caught in a cycle of hiring and then laying off employees. Let’s look at the latest updates on which companies are cutting jobs and the reasons behind these decisions 🔽

Source 1; Source 2

But let’s try not to dwell on the stress. Instead, let’s explore what we, as HR leaders, can do to address them, learn from them, and navigate these challenges effectively.

💬 The Human Element in Layoffs

Let’s be real—layoffs are tough. No matter how necessary they might be from a business standpoint, they’re still a gut punch for everyone involved (been there 😢). But here’s the thing: how you handle layoffs can make or break the trust and morale in your company. Just look at the recent backlash against Axios! They announced layoffs in a memo that looked like one of their articles—cold, impersonal, and honestly, a little tone-deaf. Yikes! 😬

As HR leaders, we’ve got to remember that layoffs are about people’s lives. So, when the tough decision comes, how you communicate it matters big time.

It’s tough, no doubt. HR often ends up caught in the crossfire during layoffs, taking the brunt of employee backlash. It’s hard not to take it personally, but try to set your boundaries while still listening with an empathetic ear. Balancing that compassion with professionalism is key to getting through these tough moments.

Bottom line: handle layoffs with empathy, and your organization will be better for it in the long run.

🤖 Impact of AI and Automation

For us in HR, this shift towards AI and automation is a double-edged sword. On one hand, yes, some traditional roles are being phased out, but on the other hand, this creates space for new roles focused on AI and tech. So, what’s our move? We’ve got to start thinking about reskilling and upskilling our teams. The future of work is here, and we need to be ready for it.

In the end, AI and automation are tools that can help us do our jobs better, but it’s up to us to use them wisely and keep the human element front and center.

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Today’s HR Reads for You 📚️ 

1. 🧑‍💼 Manager Burnout: The One Person Who Could Make Your Job Easier Also Doesn’t Want to Be There

2. 👂 The Employee Perspective: 4 professionals share why workplace flexibility is so important

3. 🥵 It’s getting hot in here:Heat waves are hurting your workforce — here's how to respond

That’s a wrap for today!

Got any additional feedback for me? Let me know! 👇️