According to a recent survey by the German Economic Institute (IW), 38% of companies are planning to reduce their workforce in 2025.
Every downsizing measure is a major challenge for everyone involved. HR managers are often under immense pressure to develop downsizing programs. On the one hand, they are required to take economic necessities into account, while on the other hand they must ensure that the company still has the necessary skills.
Management is demanding cost cuts, employees are in shock and the works council is reacting with concern and resistance – an extremely difficult starting situation.
In this situation, it is crucial to ask the right questions before individual solutions can be developed.
Some aspects that HR decision-makers should consider:
- HR capacity: Is our team ready for this measure?
- Experience with downsizing processes: Have we already mastered similar situations?
- Type of redundancy: Are these redundancies for operational reasons or a voluntary redundancy program?
- Mood and cooperation: How is the cooperation between HR, works council, managers and management?
- Profiles of the employees concerned: What qualifications and experience do they have?
- Regional labor market: What is the situation in our region?
- Budget: What financial resources are available to us?
The advice provided by VBLP begins with precisely these questions in order to develop a customized concept for you and your employees.
There are various approaches to designing personnel changes in such a way that those affected can accept the measure and feel valued and supported during this challenging time.
VBLP offers a wide range of consulting services:
- Catch-up talks
- Perspective consulting
- Financial and pension advice
- Outplacement offers as individual or group formats
- Training for managers
The involvement of a transfer agency or transfer company can also be useful.
A sustainable communication strategy throughout the entire process is essential – here too, we provide support and relief. We are happy to advise you, individually tailored to your situation and your budget.
