By: Michelle Peterson
Outplacement services have often been perceived as exclusive to executives, especially during large-scale workforce reductions. However, this perception isn’t always reality, and it certainly shouldn’t be. At CBIZ, our Career Transition Services (CTS) program is available to support employees at all levels, from individual contributors to executives. As the workforce landscape evolves, more companies are realizing the value of providing outplacement services to everyone, no matter their title or the size of the workforce reduction.
Shifting the Perception: Outplacement for Everyone
While some companies have historically limited outplacement to senior leaders, others have long recognized the benefits of offering these services to all employees. The perception that outplacement is only for executives has been persistent, but the reality is that support for those impacted should—and can—extend to all levels of an organization.At CBIZ, we’ve been providing outplacement services for every type of employee for many years. Whether it’s a large-scale reduction or the layoff of just one person, we ensure that everyone impacted receives personalized, compassionate, and professional support. Our CTS program has always been inclusive, providing the tools needed for career transitions regardless of rank or role.
The Real Benefits of Outplacement for All Levels
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Inclusive, Tailored Support:
Job seekers come from diverse backgrounds and hold different levels of experience. Our program is designed to meet those varying needs. For example, an individual contributor with limited leadership experience may need a different level of career coaching compared to an executive, and our services reflect this personalized approach. -
Faster Reemployment Rates:
Studies have shown that outplacement services lead to faster reemployment. A 2023 study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) found that individuals who received outplacement services found new jobs 40% faster than those who did not. For both employees and employers, this is a significant advantage as it minimizes the financial and emotional impact of unemployment. -
Scalable for Any Layoff Size:
It’s not just large workforce reductions that benefit from outplacement. Even when one or a handful of employees are let go, offering outplacement support demonstrates a company’s commitment to its people. It helps maintain a positive employer brand and shows that the organization values every employee, no matter their position. According to a 2022 CareerArc survey, 72% of job seekers who were offered outplacement services had a more favorable impression of their former employer, compared to only 45% who did not receive such support. -
Broadened Networking and Opportunities:
One of the key services our CTS program offers is access to our network of HR professionals, recruiters, and industry contacts. This support is critical for job seekers at every level, particularly those who may not have an established network. We also provide candidates with insights into job market trends, ensuring they’re prepared to strategically make their next move. -
Emotional and Practical Career Support:
The emotional toll of job loss can be just as impactful for individual contributors as it is for executives. That’s why we focus not only on the practical aspects of the job search but also on helping individuals regain their confidence. Our coaching covers both the professional strategies needed for a successful job search and the emotional resilience required to navigate the uncertainty of career transitions. -
Business Continuity and Employee Morale:
Outplacement programs don’t just benefit those who leave—they also help stabilize the morale of the remaining workforce. Employees witnessing the company’s commitment to all levels of staff, including individual contributors, are more likely to feel secure and remain productive. In fact, a 2022 survey by SHRM indicated that 58% of companies providing outplacement services saw improved morale among remaining employees. This helps avoid drops in performance and reassures associates that they are working for a company that truly values its people. -
Cost Savings:
While outplacement programs require an upfront investment, they often result in long-term savings. A 2021 Aberdeen report revealed that organizations offering outplacement services experienced 26% lower unemployment insurance costs, as displaced employees found new positions faster, reducing the financial burden on the company. -
Employer Brand Protection:
Beyond the immediate financial impact, offering outplacement services also protects the employer’s brand. In today’s world, where company reputation is closely tied to employee treatment, providing career transition support is a way to demonstrate that a business values its people, even when difficult decisions must be made. Companies offering outplacement services during layoffs have been shown to have a 72% higher rate of positive brand perception among former employees.
Breaking Down the Barriers of Perception
As more companies shift their approach to providing outplacement support, they’re starting to see what we at CBIZ have always known: providing career transition support to all employees—not just executives—benefits everyone involved. The focus should be about helping people, no matter their job title, get back on their feet and find their next opportunity with confidence.
In a previous article, I discussed how networking plays a crucial role in the job search process. For individual contributors and mid-level employees, these networks can be harder to access. That’s why our program goes beyond the standard offerings, actively helping candidates make meaningful connections and get their resumes in front of key decision-makers.
By offering support for all employees, companies not only show that they care about their people, but they also protect their brand’s reputation, foster a culture of trust, and maintain positive relationships with both former and current employees.
Let’s Close It Out
At CBIZ, we’ve always believed that outplacement services should be available to every employee, not just executives. As the perception of outplacement continues to shift, we’re proud to have been at the forefront, providing personalized support for all levels. Whether it’s one employee or many, our Career Transition Services program ensures that no one is left behind in their job search journey.