How to tell an employee their position is being eliminated Apply for unemployment & move on. However, employers aren’t allowed to eliminate the position out of retaliation or just to make it so that the employee cannot return. . Telling your team a co-worker has been fired is never pleasant, but if handled correctly, you can avoid potential problems. ” Explain that the company is restructuring due to whatever reason and that their job is impacted. We appreciate [Employee Name]’s contributions during their time with us and wish them well in their future endeavors. Access rights validated Dec 10, 2024 · Below, you’ll find 15 termination letter templates that address various scenarios and roles within a company undergoing restructuring: Letter 1: Termination Due to Department Consolidation Subject: Notice of Position Elimination Dear [Employee Name], I regret to inform you that due to the consolidation of our Marketing and Communications departments, your position as Marketing Coordinator Nov 25, 2024 · Learn how to effectively navigate job elimination, understand your rights, and explore options for severance and unemployment benefits. Here are some practical strategies to navigate this situation: Take Time to Process Your Emotions Upon receiving the news that your position is being eliminated, take a deep breath and Sep 13, 2024 · Is it legal for a company to tell me my position is being eliminated, and then rehire someone? I am 45 years of Age Female. Do I qualify for unemployment if my position is eliminated? Oct 14, 2024 · Letting an employee go requires managers to balance empathy with professionalism while ensuring remaining team members stay focused and motivated. Discover effective strategies here. Aug 11, 2014 · Position Elimination When a team member is laid off due to their position being eliminated, it`s helpful to allow the departing employee to say his or her goodbyes. Mar 14, 2018 · Without that ground work being done, employers can end up with egg on their faces when a plaintiff says “okay, you had to eliminate a position, but why my position?” Another danger is that employers will claim a reduction in force may re-fill the position that they told the plaintiff they were eliminating. I did not receive notice from the company and I don't know what I can do legally. , reorganization, budget reduction, acquisition, consolidation, etc. A wealth of research says that concerns over job Yes they can. The task requires careful and considerate communication that not only makes professional sense but also is empathetic. This is different from being fired, where you’re being let go because of something related to your performance or your conduct, and where your employer will typically rehire for your position. May 18, 2020 · This article shares employee layoff announcement examples from Microsoft, Uber, and Airbnb, including what each one does well and not so well. Jun 26, 2015 · Even if letting go of the employee (or employees) is in the best interest of the company, you still may feel guilty. Information about what is to become of the employee's benefits. Explain briefly that the university is experiencing a period of budget cuts and as a result, employee positions are being eliminated or restructured. Check these 9 tips on how to communicate restructuring to employees gracefully (with examples). What happens if a company eliminates your position? If you receive a notification or letter stating your position is being eliminated, you'll typically work a few Oct 19, 2023 · The differences between laid off vs. Thankfully, there are many ways in which We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. ) Process or logic used to identify areas of the Unit where positions could be eliminated Process or logic used to identify specific position (s) to be eliminated What to say during a position elimination? May 9, 2024 · Losing your job due to position elimination is a challenging experience. May 19, 2020 · The position eliminated is Team Leader, but the person who loses his job is junior trainee. As part of ongoing organizational restructuring, [Employee Name]'s position has been eliminated effective [Date]. Sep 26, 2017 · Avoid easing into the topic of the employee's job being eliminated; come out and say it. Nov 17, 2019 · Make the reason your job position was eliminated a concise and sympathetic statement in your Elevator Pitch (i. So in this blog post, we will look at email best practices when informing your staff of an employee termination, and then some hacks to ensure a soft landing. Feb 13, 2023 · What to Say in Interviews After Your Position Was Eliminated was originally published on Ivy Exec. Anticipating employee reactions and questions can help you manage Dec 5, 2024 · Terminating an employee due to the elimination of their position is a difficult yet sometimes necessary decision that companies face. Feb 1, 2002 · Here's how employers and employees can successfully manage generative AI and other AI-powered systems. Can you collect unemployment if your job is eliminated? Do you get severance if your job is eliminated? You can typically receive severance pay and unemployment in California. You may receive a severance package with payment or benefits covered over the next few months or other additional perks. This can be through career assistance support given through an outplacement company, or even by helping them find a new position at your organization. terminated vs. “I’m sorry for what you are experiencing. If they can prove they were let go because of race, gender, age, creed, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status or disability, or contract violation Jan 30, 2025 · Losing a job is challenging, but discovering your former employer has hired someone else for the same position can add confusion and frustration. Dear Team, I want to let you know that [Employee Name] is no longer with [Company/Department], effective [Date]. It is typically sent as a part of the layoff process and provides the necessary details, along with next steps for the employee. Jan 1, 2021 · Unless you discuss a possible position elimination due to economic conditions or the business’s financial state before the employee goes on leave, you can’t eliminate an employee's job while the employee is on leave without also expecting a possible retaliation claim. Score: 4. Dec 6, 2023 · Here's how employers and employees can successfully manage generative AI and other AI-powered systems. This decision aligns with our strategic goals to better position the company for future growth. Apr 30, 2025 · As a result, we have come to the difficult decision to eliminate positions within the organization. The question is does the employee who was let go in the previous day’s restructuring have a case against the employer? The answer is, maybe. Just like you did with the employee, don’t make small talk and don’t make the conversation about you. , the response to, “Tell me about yourself”) and let recruiters on LinkedIn know you are actively searching for new opportunities. No law against filling a job that was previously eliminated. Nov 3, 2025 · Dear Team, As part of ongoing organizational restructuring, [Employee Name]’s position has been eliminated effective [Date]. These 7 scripts help you stay grounded, professional, and clear throughout the process. It describes the steps that will be taken when a position is no longer needed, such as when a job is abolished due to restructuring or financial difficulties. What happens if a company eliminates your position? If you receive a notification or letter stating your position is being eliminated, you'll typically work a few more weeks at the company helping them wrap up or reassign any responsibilities you were previously working on. Sep 7, 2018 · Utilize the conversation about your position being eliminated as an opportunity to ask for recommendations or referrals. ” One of the main things to hit in this dialogue is the reason why the position has been eliminated. Minimize stress and maintain trust. Avoid vague or sugar-coated language, as it can cause confusion. The letter generally covers the following: Reasons for the RIF. " However, 2 weeks after I left the company, I was told by ex-coworkers that my boss hired someone in my place to perform my same job duties (though I believe my boss gave this person a different job title?). May 7, 2025 · Termination Details This part of the employee layoff notice formally states that the employee’s position is being eliminated. Apr 25, 2014 · “As a result, a number of positions at this facility are being eliminated and your position is one being affected. Aug 23, 2016 · The next paragraph states they've decided to eliminate my position and split the duties among an existing Controller and a entry-level Accountant. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to communicate that your position was eliminated, it’s crucial to choose the right words and tone to convey your message effectively and Apr 1, 2025 · Sample Termination Letter Position Eliminated: Find sample letters you can use to terminate employees due to position elimination. It’s crucial to handle these situations with professionalism, empathy, and clear communication to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible for all parties involved. They might react with anger and resentment, even to a point where their productivity falls off. Customer: Hello, today I was told that my position was eliminated and that I was not fired but my position was closed and left me without any work. Learn how to communicate layoffs to employees with empathy and professionalism. It simply places a slightly higher burden of proof on you to establish a pattern of mistreatment or otherwise prove that you are a victim of wrongful termination. Sharing the news with employees isn't easy. I have been with this company for 2+ years. Plus mistakes to avoid and what NOT to say if you want to find a job. Put yourself in the employee’s position. But if we lay them off citing their position being eliminated, then we can’t replace them for a year because it is not actually a new job. Please understand that this decision is not a reflection of your work but rather a strategic change to better position [Company Name] for the future. We sincerely thank [Employee Name] for their hard work and contributions and wish them the best in their future pursuits. Keep this section straightforward and free of unnecessary emotion. Elements youll typically find in an elimination letter are: Here is an example of a position eliminated letter: Dear Andrea Adams, Property Solutions Corporation has experienced financial difficulties as a Dec 6, 2023 · A sample letter informing an employee of a position elimination. Feb 3, 2025 · What is a RIF letter? A reduction in force letter is used to notify an employee they have lost their job due to major company changes such as budget cuts, acquisitions, and restructuring. Understanding company policies and applicable Jun 8, 2020 · Just because your employer eliminated your position or terminated your job with the company as part of a restructuring effort does not mean that you don’t have any legal right to recourse. Elements youll typically find in an elimination letter are: Here is an example of a position eliminated letter: Dear Andrea Adams, Property Solutions Corporation has experienced financial difficulties as a To conduct concise, yet compassionate, separation meetings in a respectful manner that inform employees that their jobs are being eliminated and they are being separated; To protect the corporate and employer brand, to the general public, and for future recruitment; and To minimize negative impact on employees leaving and staying. Jul 9, 2019 · If you’re being laid off, your job is being eliminated (usually for financial reasons, although it can also happen in a restructure). Jan 2, 2024 · Position elimination policy template A position elimination policy is a procedure that explains how positions can be abolished within an organization. Dec 7, 2024 · How to Professionally Say You Were Fired or I Was Fired (140 Formal Synonyms, Phrases, and Sentences) is a comprehensive guide designed to help individuals navigate the delicate conversation of explaining a job loss in a professional manner. Employers may eliminate positions and hire replacements with the same title, often as part of restructuring. In the long run, honesty is the best policy and will help you and the employee move on after the elimination. Thankfully, there are effective employee termination scripts that you can use to respectfully part ways with an employee. Elimination of Position Labor Laws. Jun 23, 2024 · Whether the position was eliminated or the person was terminated (performance, behavior, etc) the employer can post the position. It's essential to stay calm, professional, and composed during the Mar 6, 2017 · Many organizations choose to provide support to employees after their position is eliminated. In the meantime, [briefly explain any changes to workflow, responsibilities, or points of contact, if needed]. HOWEVER, if the position was eliminated the former employee can file complaint with federal and state DOL. Documentation like performance reviews can support employee claims. Still, I had never received a negative performance review, and my work had been praised by colleagues, presidents and trustees. Tell the employee exactly why he is being fired. They should know it’s coming and have had a chance to stop it. Avoid creating cover stories or giving vague reasons for the decision. Jul 5, 2017 · There are times when a company’s financial circumstances dictate that salaries must be reduced, perks eliminated and bonuses forgone. A well-crafted termination letter serves as an official record of the decision, outlines Jul 10, 2024 · If the reason for the firing is a layoff, provide evidence to the employee of decreased overall company performance or reasoning for shutting down their position. Jul 19, 2018 · An employee is informed their position is being eliminated and they are to stop work that day- The employee has reason to believe the company has known for months re this elimination, including the timing within which it would take place. Are you in the difficult position of having to notify one or more employees that their position has been eliminated and no other opportunity presently exists within the organization? At Transition Solutions, we have been helping companies and individuals with workforce changes and outplacement services for 30 years. If you are eligible to receive unemployment benefits, California severance pay laws allow you to receive severance benefits simultaneously. What’s the first question you’d have? Answer: I can’t share who else is being laid off in the department at this time. This guide covers Mar 23, 2023 · 10 polite ways to write a layoff email to employees - each of these layoff letter templates will help you ensure that you convey it with honesty and empathy. [Or:] Yes, yours is the only position in our team that’s being eliminated. Many managers shy away from having Oct 1, 2013 · Here's how employers and employees can successfully manage generative AI and other AI-powered systems. I am a Director in position and my most recent manager (SVP of OPS) came on board beg of the year and was clear he is here to clean house. Someone losing the job is a very tricky circumstance to try and explain to your staff. Dec 7, 2024 · Sincerely, [Manager Name] [Title] Sample Letter 2 Dear [Employee Name], I am writing to notify you that your position is being eliminated effective [date] as part of a company-wide restructuring. An employer should be prepared to demonstrate: the legitimate business reasons for a position elimination; that any new positions differ substantially from former ones; and that employee qualifications for new or existing alternative positions were assessed objectively. Aug 30, 2025 · When an employee is terminated, emotions run high. Here are just a few of these: Performance and conduct issues that arise when an employee consistently fails to meet job expectations, disregards company policies, or engages in misconduct that undermines the work environment. It is unlawful to fire an employee for unlawful reasons (such as the employee’s race or religion). The date of the employee's last day of employment. Handling these demotions thoughtfully and compassionately is crucial for maintaining morale and retention. Your employment termination date is effective at the close of business on [date]. In fact, 78 percent of Americans are worried about losing their jobs, so you’re just a drop in the bucket. It is with deepest regret that I must notify you of your position being eliminated from the organization. Sep 7, 2023 · Employee terminations shouldn’t come as a surprise It shouldn’t come as a surprise to an employee if the organization terminates them. This can help expand your network and increase your chances of finding new employment opportunities. While not always required to prove selection reasons, employees can request explanations or challenge decisions if discrimination or unfair treatment is suspected. Jul 14, 2025 · Announce employee departures the right way with ready-to-use templates, scripts, and AI prompts for every situation. Question: Who’s going to do all the work that I do once I’m gone? The rub is that they are insisting that job descriptions can’t be changed, so by doing so it’s a new role and they can just keep doing their current job, without the updated duties, unless we lay them off. fired, and what to say to employers in your next job search. If the employee is considered to be in a protected class the employee will win and likely a Oct 21, 2011 · After all, you may know that you had numerous conversations with the employee before letting her go, and gave her warnings and chances to improve, but since your staff isn’t privy to that, it’s important that they know how to handle these situations in general – since otherwise they may worry that firings happen out of the blue. Dec 14, 2022 · Employees over 40 who have been let go are also entitled to see the job titles and ages of the people in their department also being laid off and those whose positions have not been eliminated. if you were laid off, this is a common practice by businesses as the demand for services or product changes. We will Mar 24, 2025 · Psychologists share 15 thoughtful examples of what to say to someone who's recently lost their job, and how each statement can provide comfort and/or encouragement. Organizational restructuring when employee roles and responsibilities undergo significant changes. Lawyer's Assistant: Just to confirm, were any reasons given as grounds for the termination? Customer: No Lawyer's Assistant: What kind of workplace is this (private Jan 21, 2025 · You are on FMLA leave, recovering from surgery or caring for a loved one, and then the unexpected happens—your employer tells you your job has been eliminated due to a reduction in force (RIF). Getting laid off can feel like the end of the world… But it’s far from it. Simply telling the employee that they are being fired for a company or economic shortcomings will not be effective in showing the employee the support they deserve. Can you sue a company for being demoted? Under the federal and state discrimination laws, you can sue for a demotion if the reason for Feb 4, 2015 · No small talk. If that someone is you, chances are you're not looking forward to this meeting. However, with the right mindset and proactive steps, you can make a graceful exit and transition to the next phase of your career. (From the vault: How to Nail the Dreaded Elevator Pitch) 8. Prepare for the conversation and ensure you handle the process correctly. However, it’s just as important for companies to carefully consider how they Dec 28, 2024 · Whether you are a business owner, a manager at a company or a HR professional, one of the most challenging tasks that you may face in the workplace is firing an employee. It is doubly hard for the affected employee to understand this action when they have no control over the decision. The best course of action is to be honest Mar 30, 2020 · Directly referencing the current COVID-19 pandemic – or any recent emergency – as the cause for the layoff and pairing with a complimentary evaluation of an employee’s performance can help employees avoid seeing the layoff as a reflection themselves or their skills. Nov 19, 2018 · In today’s ever-changing job market, it’s not uncommon for positions to be eliminated due to various reasons such as company restructuring, budget constraints, or technological advancements. 2/5 (13 votes) Meet with your human resources team to learn what benefits they're offering employees with eliminated positions. Feeling nervous about losing your job isn’t uncommon. Feb 27, 2014 · Introduction Telling an employee that his or her job is being eliminated is, perhaps, one of the most difficult challenges a manager or supervisor may encounter. What does it mean when your position has been eliminated? Position eliminations and reductions in force allow an employer to say goodbye to an employee without having to lay out the reasons for the separation on the employee’s door step. By understanding the common reasons for termination, recognizing the emotional and professional impacts, and being aware of legal rights, individuals can better navigate this challenging situation and prepare for their next steps. Unfortunately, we had to eliminate one position, and, from a functional standpoint, your position made the most sense. Sample language might be “John, the university is facing severe budget cuts and departments have been asked to significantly reduce their budgets. currently I am on my 3rd manager. But it has to be done. 6 days ago · When HR professionals talk about communicating layoffs, the discussion generally centers around breaking the news to departing employees. Justifications should include: Why this action is being taken (e. Introduction Telling an employee that his or her job is being eliminated is, perhaps, one of the most difficult challenges a manager or supervisor may encounter. If they refuse to change behaviors or improve poor performance there should be a sequence of disciplinary actions that culminated in their dismissal. Sep 23, 2024 · Can employers eliminate positions at any time to get around the FMLA? Positions are eliminated from workplaces often, and that may influence if a person can come back after they take time off under the FMLA. In this guide, you will find the best practices for terminating employees–starting from legal Aug 9, 2021 · Learn how to use scripts for terminating employees. Aug 4, 2016 · Managers who want to avoid the confrontation associated with progressive discipline and terminations often look to the path of least resistance—a no-fault layoff—because it appears to provide Jan 7, 2025 · Laid off and applying for a new job? An HR exec with 36 years of experience shares scripts for discussing being made redundant in an interview. Mar 3, 2021 · Others forwarded emails from their own more prestigious alma maters, which were eliminating programs and laying off employees by the dozen. With layoffs and restructuring, communication is key. Information about Dec 24, 2022 · What does a position eliminated letter look like? Many businesses will send you letters or emails notifying you that your position is being eliminated and outlining what you should do next. g. It is also helpful to let your team know where to turn if they have questions or concerns, whether that is you, HR, or another designated point of contact. Let the group know that impacted employees were just informed their jobs were being terminated. Our collection of termination letters can help you communicate this difficult news clearly and professionally. Understanding the legality of this scenario requires examining employment Instead, briefly acknowledge the employee's departure, thank them for their contributions, and share any immediate next steps, such as who will take over their responsibilities in the interim. Tips on how to tell staff here. When your company decides that a job must be eliminated, someone must tell the affected employee of the decision. May 14, 2025 · If a probationary employee must be let go for reasons related to funding or departmental restructuring, Human Resources prepares a special notice that informs the employee that their position is being eliminated because the department can no longer sustain it. As a result some employees may face demotions to lower-level roles. It's always difficult to tell an employee that he no longer has a job, particularly if the employee has been with the company for years. An employee layoff email is a formal communication sent by an organization to inform an employee that their position is being eliminated due to reasons such as company restructuring, budget cuts, or economic conditions. Can I sue if my job was eliminated? No, you can't sue to get your job back or for damages. May 2, 2003 · Lay off due to elimination of position I was laid off because my "position was being eliminated. Jan 7, 2023 · What does a position eliminated letter look like? Many businesses will send you letters or emails notifying you that your position is being eliminated and outlining what you should do next. Jul 7, 2024 · Organizational restructuring often involves eliminating positions or reducing headcount. Let them know when the termination takes effect and how the company will support the impacted employee. They can also sue the employer and in most cases they will win. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Oct 31, 2023 · Due to this restructuring, we have come to the decision to eliminate positions within the organization. As an HR professional, you play a key part in ensuring demotions due to restructuring are handled professionally. Frequently, when companies have to consolidate, the people who remain are overall top performers who are cross-trained (or capable of being cross-trained) who now fill in for multiple rolls. Aug 19, 2025 · Open the letter by stating directly — but respectfully — that the employee’s position is being eliminated due to restructuring. Clarity helps the employee understand that the decision is final and unrelated to their performance. Preparing to Explain Being Fired Being fired from a job can be a Sep 6, 2022 · If you don’t know the person but want to say something in the comments section of their post, reach out with encouragement. Will I be eligible for benefits since, regardless of how hard I tried, my position will no longer exist? Dec 13, 2022 · Position eliminations. Employers choose to eliminate positions based on a number of factors, such as staffing changes resulting from company reorganization, consolidation of Feb 15, 2025 · What happens if your position is eliminated? Meet with your human resources team to learn what benefits they're offering employees with eliminated positions. This situation raises legal questions about whether such actions are permissible under employment laws and what rights laid-off employees may have in these circumstances. Handling the news that your position is being eliminated can be a shock, to say the least. Keep the conversation short. e. Nov 25, 2024 · Being fired is a complex experience that encompasses emotional, professional, and legal dimensions. Letting someone know they no longer have a job is no easy task, which is why guides and webinars on compassionate offboarding abound to help HR professionals navigate these talks. What’s the best way to deliver the news? Layoffs: Example Script 1 | P a g e Jun 6, 2025 · Learn what position eliminated means, what a position eliminated letter looks like and the steps to take when you receive this letter. Closing entire plants or departments. Simply review the examples, select the one that best suits your situation, and edit as needed. ighz qumwyo szimp nxncw uladsart rbyp sawjnf ufcffb gfjim kphvy vlmbaxy ihweezs onquf xhb dqq