At JFCS, we’re proud to have experienced outplacement staff who have been working in the industry for over 20 years. During that time, they have seen first-hand the many benefits that outplacement or “career transition” services provide to both departing employees and employers. Here are just a few of the reasons why your company should consider using outplacement services.
1. SUPPORT TO DEPARTING EMPLOYEES
Most important is the practical job search assistance and career coaching/counseling we provide to departing employees. Personalized assistance with skills assessment, identifying career options, developing self-marketing materials, interview preparation, etc., are all invaluable in preparing employees to navigate today’s job market.
Equally important is the psychological and emotional support many employees require during a very vulnerable time in their life. Our expertise and counseling resources make their transition a more positive experience by providing hope and motivation and by shifting the focus from their job loss to future opportunities.
2. FASTER LANDING TIMES
Statistically, employees provided with outplacement services land much faster than those without any support. We consistently receive feedback from employers that our clients are well prepared to market themselves in today’s competitive job market as we do our best to ensure they are up-to-date on the latest hiring practices, job search strategies and resources. Our knowledge of the job market along with our ongoing job development efforts (job fairs, Weekly Job Blast, etc.) also contribute to faster client placements.
Faster landing times are also a benefit to our clients’ former employers as well, as it may help to reduce their unemployment compensation and severance obligations.
3. INCREASED LOYALTY & SATISFACTION OF EXISTING EMPLOYEES
Often overlooked is how remaining employees react to seeing their coworkers leaving the organization. Knowing that departing employees are being provided assistance in their transition sends a positive message to the remaining staff and is essential to maintaining retention and productivity and keeping the organization running smoothly.
4. COMPANY IMAGE & REPUTATION
One of a company’s best public relations vehicles is their employees and former employees. With today’s rapid communication and the increasing influence of social media, word spreads quickly regarding an employer’s reputation and how they treat employees. Providing outplacement support can be a powerful lasting benefit for an organization that wants to demonstrate its corporate values and protect its business brand in the community and marketplace.
5. REDUCED RISK OF LEGAL ACTION
Lastly, providing outplacement support along with a severance package reduces the risk of potential lawsuits and negative publicity and helps a company maintain its reputation in the market as a desirable employer who cares about their employees.
JFCS Career Development Center has been providing comprehensive career services to a wide variety of clients for over 30 years. Our experienced staff of career consultants provide personalized, holistic services via one-on-one meetings, group workshops and/or virtually. As a Pittsburgh-based organization, we have a deep understanding of the local job market along with many established employer and recruiter relationships that will be an additional asset to your employees.
To learn more about our career transition services or to discuss how we can design an affordable, customized outplacement program to meet your company’s needs, please visit our dedicated Outplacement services page and contact Shawnte’ Knox, Employer Relations Specialist, at 412-463-3373 or sknox@jfcspgh.org.