What is Outplacement?

Welcome to my new website, Downsize With Dignity.

So, what is “Outplacement”? Wikipedia defines outplacement as “the efforts by a downsizing company to help former employees through the transition to new jobs and help them re-orient to the job market”. The costs of the outplacement service is typically provided by the employer as part of the termination contract though individuals can also hire an outplacement service of choice.

The term outplacement was coined in the US over 30 years ago. As more individuals became victims of downsizing, rightsizing, layoffs, and restructuring, a need arose to help departing employees. Statistics prove that being let go from your job is one of the most stressful life events, placing third behind death and divorce.

The name itself sounds so negative. OUT-placement…like the Umpire in a ballgame yelling “You’re OUT”! No one wants to be put in that position and for some reason, there’s a stigma associated with being kicked out, whether from a ballgame or the job.

My philosophy is to make the time of transition a positive, happy experience. If there were a term, I’d rather call it IN-placement for my goal is to return you to a new, fulfilling placement IN a company as quickly and efficiently as possible. I’m there to provide encouragement, support and guidance as a job search can be a lonely and tumultuous adventure.

I want my senior executive clients to feel special and unique, thus I pondered many business names before selecting Downsize With Dignity. Even my tagline, Concierge of white glove career transition services reflects the calibre of service the Downsize With Dignity team of career management experts will provide. I want your outplacement experience to be a positive, uplifting and encouraging time.

So while I’ve entered the outplacement services sector, I hope you’ll find Downsize With Dignity to be an INsightful and INspiring website and career management service.

Peruse the site, check back regularly as I add new blogs, connect with me online, or send me a note. I’d love to hear about your downsizing and/or outplacement experience and welcome future blog ideas so I may better serve you, the senior executive.

Sincerely,

Martin Buckland

Executive Career Matchmaker

Principal – Elite Resumes and Downsize With Dignity