WHAT TO SAY · DIFFICULT NEWS
How to tell an employee they are being made redundant (laid off)
This is the hardest conversation in management. Be clear in the first minute, follow your company’s process exactly, and focus on dignity and next steps. HR will usually be involved: check the legal steps for your country first.
Before you start
- Agree the exact process, documents and timing with HR. Do not improvise legal points.
- Have the details ready: last day, pay, notice, support.
- Hold it in private, early in the week, not on a Friday afternoon if you can avoid it.
The script
- OPEN WITH
[Name], thank you for coming in. I have some difficult news, and I want to be clear with you straight away.
Your role is being made redundant. This is a decision about the role, not about you or your work.
Your last working day will be [date]. [HR name] will take you through pay, notice and the support available.
I know this is a lot to take in. You do not need to respond now.
I will help however I can, including a reference and introductions.
Replace the [brackets] with real details. Say it in your own words; the structure matters more than the exact wording.
If they say…
“Why me?”
The decision was about [the role / the team structure]. I can share what I am allowed to, and HR can explain the process that was followed.
“Silence or tears.”
Take your time. There is no rush. Would you like some water, or a few minutes alone?
What to avoid
- Small talk before the news.
- "I know how you feel."
- Arguing about the decision or blaming others.