Losing a job can be a discouraging experience. However, some companies attempt to soften the blow by providing severance packages or allowing former employees to continue to use office space while they seek new positions. A more comprehensive type of service is known as outplacement, which is often provided when companies perform large layoffs.
Outplacement Defined
Outplacement is a service provided by companies to assist former employees in their search for new jobs. The companies contract with outplacement companies or consultants that work with the individual employees to help them prepare résumés, identifying possible job leads, and similar services. In many cases, the company pays for the services of the outplacement company or consultant. However, individuals may seek the services of a retail outplacement firm, which they would pay for out of their own pockets.
Vocational Assessment
One of the first steps in the outplacement process is determining the job candidate's qualifications for other open positions. That is done through a thorough assessment of the candidate's skills and interests. Standard career-placement tests may be used, as well as one-on-one counseling with one or more outplacement officers.
Résumé Preparation
Helping the candidate prepare to approach a potential new employers is another important function of the outplacement firm. The outplacement firm will typically assist the job seeker in preparing one or more targeted résumés. Outplacement firms may also assist with cover letters and other marketing strategies, such as preparing a profile for career networking platforms such as LinkedIn.
Interview Coaching
Preparing the job candidate for the all-important job interview is a vital role of many outplacement firms. Interview coaching, often involving mock interviews, may be provided to the job candidate. The outplacement officer will observe the job candidate and offer advice on how he or she communicates verbally and nonverbally.
Considerations
The level of outplacement services provided will vary according to the agreement between the company and the outplacement firm. Typically, high-level executives will receive more comprehensive services than mid-level employees. However, displaced employees should not expect an outplacement firm to do all the work of helping them find new jobs.
