✏️Prompts

Workforce Reduction & Transition Planning Prompt

Prompt

Our [PASTE: client]] is downsizing by [PASTE: percentage]] and needs a structured, sensitive approach that protects reputation and morale. Create a reduction planning framework.

Include: (1) Selection criteria – how do you identify who stays and who goes? Performance, skills, retention needs, demographics? (2) Legal review – severance obligations, WARN Act requirements, discrimination risk? (3) Severance package – amount, benefits continuation, references, outplacement? (4) Communication plan – how do you communicate to affected employees, remaining staff, customers? (5) Transition logistics – offboarding, knowledge transfer, systems access, IT? (6) Emotional impact – how do you maintain morale with remaining team? Address survivor guilt?

Include severance calculation worksheet and communication timeline. Prepare for media/social response.

Why it works

Handled poorly, reductions damage morale and reputation. Thoughtful execution minimizes harm and preserves relationships.

Watch out for

Reductions can trigger legal claims. Ensure consistent, defensible selection and proper documentation.

Used by

HR TeamsExecutives