Outplacement FAQ

Q: What does outplacement do?

A: Outplacement helps employees who are facing enforced job change - through redundancy or some other form of severance - to work positively towards the next stage in their careers.

Q: So - what is included?

A: Everyone's first thought is usually "Is my CV in good shape?" but it's better to start from "Where am I now and where do I want to be?" Outplacement should provide an individual with the opportunity to reflect a little and look at all the options available.

From that starting point we can work on CVs, how to find opportunities (including the often mis-used tactic of networking), application letters, working with recruiters etc. We also help with planning for and handling interviews.

It's not only about finding jobs, though. Many people decide to set up on their own, return to study or travel the world. We can provide support and advice in these areas.

Q: Isn't this aimed only at senior managers?

A: No. Anyone facing career change will benefit from outplacement advice. We are working with people in a wide variety of organisations across the UK, from the boardroom through to the shopfloor.

Q: Isn't all this very expensive?

A: Again - no! Outplacement should not cost a company an arm and a leg. It's a good, affordable investment in supporting those people who have to leave.

Q: Yes - but why spend money on people who are leaving?

A: There's plenty of evidence on the effects of redundancy on employee morale. Unsurprisingly, at a worrying time like this productivity goes down; the people who are at risk of losing their jobs are obviously affected, but so are those who will "survive". Employees take a view on the way their employer treats them - handle redundancy badly, show no concern for your employees, and you risk losing all commitment. Frankly, that's not a smart way to help your business thrive.

Q: How can you prove it works?

A: We're prepared to "put our money where our mouth is". We will agree measures with you at the outset - such things as candidate satisfaction, percentage of candidates who move to interview stage, etc - and a part of our fee can be directly based on achieving these. It's a measure of our confidence that we can make a positive difference.