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Upskilling

The Human Side: HR Strategies for Layoffs and Transitions

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The Human Side: HR Strategies for Layoffs and Transitions

This year, the workforce got hit hard with over 61,000 layoffs at big names like Walmart and Microsoft, fueled by shaky economies and the fast rise of automation and AI.

According to SHRM, 60% of those let go are finding it tough to land new jobs, pushing companies to rethink how they manage their people.

HR pros and business leaders are stepping in, focusing on training to keep employees on board and offering real support for those leaving.

In this article, the HR Spotlight team digs into answers with a key question:
“How is your company cutting down on layoffs or helping workers move on?”

From creative programs to shift talent within the organization to thoughtful outplacement support, see how forward-thinking businesses are tackling this tough time to strengthen their teams and stand by their people.

Read on!

Margaret Buj
Principal Recruiter, Mixmax

Margaret Buj – Mixmax

At Mixmax, we’ve been fortunate to grow sustainably. One of the ways we’ve minimized layoffs is by hiring responsibly and maintaining a lean, efficient team. We often hire contractors first-which gives both sides flexibility-before expanding full-time headcount.

When changes have occurred, transparency has been key. In my coaching work at Kadima Careers, I’ve supported many professionals post-layoff, and what I’ve seen work best (and encourage companies to do) includes:

  • Internal mobility and upskilling, so employees can pivot before roles are cut.
  • Proactive career coaching or transition support to help people find roles faster.
  • Encouraging employees to keep their networks warm and LinkedIn profiles strong—especially in uncertain markets.

Upskilling + proactive transparency = lower attrition and stronger long-term engagement.

Tammy Sons
Founder & CEO, TN Nursery

Tammy Sons – TN Nursery

Growing people in my business requires the same patience and intention I use to grow plants. Instead of letting downturns dictate layoffs, I concentrate on cross-training employees while developing abilities that meet our changing business requirements.

Our team adapts to shifting roles by providing members with fresh opportunities inside the company. Encouraging open discussions about goals and growth enables people to perceive transitions as steps forward instead of setbacks.

Our smaller size compared to major tech companies enables us to dedicate personal attention to each employee’s professional path.

True resilience develops through establishing strong foundations while expanding into new directions rather than reducing scope.

Miriam Groom
CEO, Mindful Career

Miriam Groom – Mindful Career

The tech world is facing a reckoning. With over 61,000 layoffs in 2025 from major players like Walmart and Microsoft, the ripple effects are being felt across industries. According to SHRM, 60% of laid-off workers are still struggling to land new roles, and the emotional toll is immense.

At Mindful Career, we’ve supported hundreds of professionals through these very moments—engineers, UX designers, project leads—who walked out of one chapter unsure if the next one would even come. Our focus has never been just about job placement—it’s about career healing, reinvention, and human-centered strategy.

Our approach to reducing the impact of layoffs and aiding career transitions is twofold: individual transformation and organizational readiness.

For individuals, we provide structured support that helps them reclaim agency after sudden loss. This includes:

  • Behavioral profiling to uncover transferable strengths.
  • Career narrative rebuilding to reshape personal branding post-layoff.
  • Targeted upskilling pathways based on real-time labor market data.
  • One-on-one coaching focused on mindset, clarity, and re-entry strategy.

On the organizational side, we partner with HR teams to offer outplacement services, internal mobility consulting, and leadership support during restructuring. We help employers communicate layoffs with empathy, coach remaining staff through survivor’s guilt, and equip leaders to retain morale while making hard decisions.

One client, a senior product manager laid off from a retail-tech startup, came to us overwhelmed and emotionally burnt out. 

Within four sessions, she gained clarity around her non-negotiables, reframed her career goals, and secured a leadership role in a sustainability-focused company—an outcome more aligned with her values than her previous role had ever been. 

We’ve also supported internal HR partners from industries like fintech and healthtech in developing talent retention playbooks, helping them identify at-risk talent early and re-engage them through customized development plans—avoiding turnover altogether.

Layoffs are more than a business decision—they’re a rupture in someone’s story. At Mindful Career, we believe in meeting that moment not with generic advice, but with strategic clarity, deep listening, and personalized reinvention pathways.

Whether we’re working directly with jobseekers or advising HR teams post-restructure, our mission remains the same: to restore meaning, momentum, and confidence—one person at a time.

Volen Vulkov
Co-founder, Enhancv

Volen Vulkov – Enhancv

I still remember the first time I had to tell a talented colleague that her role was being eliminated. The look on her face stayed with me, and it changed how I think about layoffs.

Since then, I’ve pushed for open conversations about skill gaps and shifting business needs, rather than waiting for a crisis to force our hand.

Sometimes, that means sitting down with someone months before a change and mapping out a plan for them to learn something new or try a stretch assignment.

Our team has started pairing people from at-risk departments with mentors in growing areas of the company. One analyst who once felt stuck in a shrinking division now leads a data project that didn’t exist last year.

Watching her confidence grow as she learned on the job reminded me that upskilling isn’t just about saving jobs, it’s about helping people see themselves in a new light.

When transitions can’t be avoided, we focus on practical support. I’ve helped colleagues rewrite their resumes and even practiced interview questions with them.

Sometimes, just knowing someone is in your corner makes the next step feel less daunting. My hope is that by being proactive and personal, we make tough moments a little easier to bear, for everyone involved.

Josh Riutta
Owner, Mikku and Sons Roofing

Josh Riutta – Mikku and Sons Roofing

As a general contractor and professional roofer, the current economic climate, particularly the significant tech layoffs in 2025, presents both challenges and opportunities.

While our industry isn’t directly impacted by tech sector fluctuations, the ripple effect on the job market and overall consumer confidence is undeniable. Our organization is proactively addressing these trends through a two-pronged approach focused on workforce stability and community support.

Firstly, we prioritize internal upskilling and diversification. Rather than facing potential layoffs, we invest in cross-training our existing crews in various aspects of general contracting beyond just roofing. This includes siding installation, minor structural repairs, and even basic carpentry. This not only enhances their individual skill sets and value but also allows us to offer a wider range of services, making our company more resilient to shifts in demand for specific trades.

Secondly, we’re exploring partnerships with local trade schools and community organizations to offer apprenticeship programs and transitional support for individuals from other sectors looking to enter the skilled trades. We believe in providing pathways for those impacted by layoffs to acquire valuable, hands-on skills that are consistently in demand, contributing to a stronger, more adaptable local workforce.

Chris Desino
Owner, Ocala Horse Properties

Chris Desino – Ocala Horse Properties

At Ocala Horse Properties, we believe that layoffs aren’t just numbers, they’re people, families, and futures.

In an industry shaped by luxury, loyalty is our real currency.

Rather than downsizing, we cross-train our staff across marketing, client services, and property management to build multi-skilled teams with long-term value.

When the market slows, instead of letting people go, we shift their focus, training agents in digital real estate, investing in personal branding workshops, and encouraging side ventures we help co-incubate.

It’s unconventional, but it works.

Real estate is cyclical, but our talent strategy doesn’t have to be. We don’t just protect jobs, we future-proof people.

Renante Hayes
Executive Director, Creloaded

Renante Hayes – Creloaded

Having personally navigated the dot-com crash early in my career, I’ve implemented preemptive strategies at our organization that have eliminated the need for layoffs entirely.

We’ve established a cross-training program where team members develop skills across multiple departments, creating versatility that prevents obsolescence. Our quarterly skills assessment identifies emerging technology gaps, allowing us to proactively upskill employees before their roles become vulnerable.

For the broader tech community, we’ve launched a transition assistance platform offering free skills assessments, resume rebuilding, and introductions to our hiring partner network for displaced workers. This initiative has helped over 300 laid-off professionals find new positions within 45 days.

Christopher Migliaccio
Founder, Warren and Migliaccio L.L.P

Christopher Migliaccio – Warren and Migliaccio LLP

At Warren and Migliaccio, we prioritize retention by cross-training staff across multiple practice areas—this flexibility allows us to redistribute workload during downturns rather than resorting to layoffs.

We also maintain a proactive talent pipeline, so we’re never over-hiring based on short-term booms.

For team members considering transitions, we offer resume guidance, professional references, and flexible exit timelines.

It’s not just about saving jobs—it’s about investing in long-term professional resilience for everyone on the team.

Robbin Schuchmann
Co-founder, EOR Overview

Robbin Schuchmann – EOR Overview

Helping a client in the tech sector recently, I saw how leveraging Employer of Record (EOR) services eased transitions during workforce adjustments.

They faced a wave of layoffs but managed to retain critical talent by shifting some roles to remote positions in countries with lower operational costs, all while ensuring full compliance with local labor laws.

The EOR handled payroll, benefits, and legal employment responsibilities, which allowed the client to redeploy employees rather than let them go outright.

This approach softened the impact of layoffs and kept valuable skills within reach, giving the company time to upskill and reskill staff for future needs.

Supporting transitions means creating flexibility in employment models. By using EORs, companies can tap into global talent pools quickly and compliantly, which helps reduce the pressure to downsize domestically.

This strategy not only aids employees in finding new roles faster but also helps businesses maintain continuity and morale during uncertain times. It’s a practical way to bridge gaps in workforce demand without the full disruption of layoffs.

David Hunt
COO, Versys Media

David Hunt – Versys Media

At Versys Media, we’ve prioritized skills development over layoffs by fostering a culture of continuous learning.

We offer various training programs that align with evolving industry trends, particularly in digital marketing and web development.

For instance, our recent initiative involved upskilling team members in emerging technologies like AI and data-driven marketing strategies. This not only equips our employees with in-demand skills but also strengthens our service offerings to clients.

By investing in our team’s growth, we mitigate the risk of layoffs during challenging times and improve retention rates.

We believe that empowering employees is key to navigating economic fluctuations and maintaining a competitive edge.

The HR Spotlight team thanks these industry leaders for offering their expertise and experience and sharing these insights.

Do you wish to contribute to the next HR Spotlight article? Or is there an insight or idea you’d like to share with readers across the globe?

Write to us at connect@HRSpotlight.com, and our team will help you share your insights.

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Upskilling Unlocked: Expert Picks for Training Methods and Formats

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Upskilling Unlocked: Expert Picks for Training Methods and Formats

In the workplace of today, effective on-the-job training is the backbone of a skilled, adaptable workforce.

With 74% of employees citing a lack of training as a barrier to career growth (LinkedIn’s 2024 Workplace Learning Report), organizations are under pressure to deliver impactful learning experiences.

We asked HR pioneers and business leaders a critical question:

What on-the-job training methods and delivery formats do you find most effective for your workforce, and what challenges led you to adopt these approaches?

From immersive digital platforms and peer-led coaching to hybrid microlearning models, their innovative solutions—shaped by past pitfalls like disengagement or outdated systems—offer a playbook for building resilient, high-performing teams.

Dive into their insights to discover how to transform training into a catalyst for success.

Read on!

Mike Ouwerkerk
Cyber Security Awareness Trainer & Cultural Transformation Consultant, Web Safe Staff

Face-To-Face Workshops Provide Best Outcomes

As a provider of cyber awareness training, I can say hands down that face-to-face workshops provide the best outcomes for my clients. I do also provide videos, cheat sheets, quizzes, posters etc., but when I train people who have used anything other than face-to-face, their knowledge is typically lacking.

Why would companies use face-to-face over other methods? It comes down to the return on investment. If there are big benefits to be made (i.e., staff less likely to be tricked by a cybercriminal), then companies will make an informed financial decision, and spend the extra money to ultimately save money.

Mohamed Moussa
Managing Director, Tornado Marine Fleet

On-The-Job Training With Mentorship

For us, the best training happens right on the boat, in the middle of the action. New crew members shadow experienced staff, learning by doing instead of sitting through long lectures. We also mix in short, hands-on workshops and use quick video guides for things like safety drills and customer service tips.

Before, training was too informal with new hires just picking things up as they went, which led to inconsistency in training. Some crew learned fast, while others missed key details, and that affected our team’s morale. So, we created a structured but flexible system where mentorship, real-time coaching, and digital tools keep everyone on the same page.

Now, training feels natural and works seamlessly with daily operations. Crew members get instant feedback, and everyone knows what’s expected, no matter which boat they’re on. The result? A confident, well-prepared and happy team that delivers top-notch service every time.

Antony Chan
Founder & Head of Learning, Teachng

Demonstration, Theory, Then Practice Approach

Having trained hundreds of team members throughout my career, I find the most effective on-the-job training follows a “demonstration-first, theory, then practice approach”.

I start by showing them what they’ll be doing, then breaking down the “why” behind each action, and finally letting them try it themselves.

This three-step process of “demonstration-first, theory, then practice approach” ensures that they’re not just imitating without understanding, but are actually grasping the reasoning behind their work.

I developed this approach after noticing that many people hesitate to ask questions during training, even when they don’t fully understand. Often, when they start doing the task, they make a lot of mistakes which can be time-consuming and expensive to fix.

By frontloading demonstration, then theory, and following up with hands-on practice, I can quickly identify gaps in their understanding and guide them before mistakes happen in real-world situations.

While the “demonstration-first, theory, then practice approach” does require time and deep expertise, it is worth it in the long run. It builds confidence, reduces errors, and ensures each team member isn’t just following instructions, but is thinking critically and mastering their role.

Jon Morgan
CEO, Business and Finance Expert, Venture Smarter

Immersive Project-Based Learning

One unique method we’ve implemented at Venture Smarter to enhance employee training in our software company is the use of immersive, project-based learning.

Rather than relying solely on traditional classroom instruction or online courses, we immerse our employees in real-world projects from the start. New hires and even current employees looking to upskill are paired with more experienced team members and assigned to live projects.

This hands-on approach not only accelerates learning but also fosters collaboration and practical problem-solving skills.

This method can be replicated in other sectors by identifying key projects within the organization that can serve as learning experiences.

For instance, in the healthcare sector, new nurses could be paired with seasoned professionals and involved in patient care scenarios. In marketing, junior staff could be assigned to active campaigns, working under the guidance of senior marketers.

The essence is to create an environment where learning is directly tied to real-world applications, ensuring that employees are not just theoretically proficient but practically competent as well.

Dr. Chad Walding
Co-Founder & Chief Culture Officer, NativePath

Interactive Online Learning With Hands-On Application

One of the most effective training methods for my team at NativePath involves a combination of interactive online learning and hands-on, in-person application.

Initially, we struggled with traditional training methods that focused heavily on theory, which led to disengagement. To address this, we incorporated real-world scenarios, case studies, and group exercises to bridge the gap between knowledge and practical application.

For instance, employees can learn the basics through online courses and then reinforce their understanding through workshops and role-playing exercises. This has significantly improved engagement, knowledge retention, and the ability to apply skills directly to their roles.

The results have been clear: we’ve seen a marked improvement in employee performance and satisfaction. If you’d like more details, feel free to reach out!

Andrew Osborne
Owner, Ozzie Mowing & Gardening

Hands-On Mentorship-Based Approach

An effective on-the-job training method I use is a hands-on, mentorship-based approach, combined with structured lessons on horticulture fundamentals.

When a new team member joins Ozzie Mowing & Gardening, they start by shadowing an experienced team member, learning everything from proper mowing techniques to plant care, pest management, and efficient garden design.

I reinforce this practical learning with short, focused sessions covering soil health, pruning strategies, and plant nutrition, drawing on my formal horticultural education.

By pairing real-world experience with expert knowledge, my team develops both technical skills and a deep understanding of why certain methods work best. This approach ensures consistency in service quality and empowers my staff to think critically in the field.

This system was developed after noticing early on that traditional training such as simply explaining techniques or handing out instructional materials was not enough. Without hands-on application, newer team members struggled to fully grasp the nuances of plant care and garden maintenance.

My 15 years of experience in gardening, combined with my formal qualifications in horticulture, allowed me to refine this process by integrating science-backed principles with practical demonstrations.

As a result, my team now learns faster, retains knowledge better, and performs with a level of expertise that has contributed to the high customer satisfaction that earned us a customer service award.

Ben Lamarche
General Manager, Lock Search Group

Blended Learning With Ongoing Support

As the General Manager of Lock Search Group, I’ve found that the most effective on-the-job training methods are those that blend hands-on experience with ongoing support and collaboration. We’ve adopted a mix of mentorship, e-learning modules, and live, interactive sessions to ensure that our team has access to both structured learning and real-world application.

In the past, we relied heavily on traditional classroom-style training, which had its limitations. While informative, it often felt disconnected from the day-to-day realities of recruitment. There was a gap between theory and practice, and sometimes it was difficult for team members to see how the training applied to their specific tasks or client needs.

To address this, we shifted to a more dynamic approach. We now pair new recruits with experienced mentors who can offer guidance in real time. These mentors help with everything from understanding client expectations to refining candidate assessments, ensuring new hires feel supported as they apply their training in a practical context.

We also introduced e-learning modules that cover core recruiting skills, such as sourcing techniques, candidate engagement, and client relationship management. These modules are flexible, allowing our team to learn at their own pace, which is crucial given the demanding nature of the job. After completing these online modules, we bring everyone together for live sessions where we can discuss challenges and share insights in a collaborative environment.

This mixed format addresses the shortcomings of our previous training approach, such as a lack of direct application and limited interaction between team members.

By combining self-paced learning with mentorship and collaborative sessions, we’ve created a more engaging and effective training program that allows our team to grow while staying connected to the practical realities of recruiting.

Amit Doshi
Founder & CEO, MyTurn

Peer-To-Peer Code Review Program

One unique strategy that has significantly improved employee training at MyTurn is implementing a “peer-to-peer code review program.” Developers are paired with peers to review each other’s code in a structured format, enhancing both their technical skills and collaborative capabilities.

This approach not only elevates coding standards but also fosters a supportive learning environment where employees learn from real-world examples and feedback. To replicate this in other sectors, companies can adapt the core principle of peer-to-peer reviews to their specific field.

For instance, in marketing, employees can review each other’s campaign strategies, while in customer service, team members can evaluate call-handling techniques. This method promotes continuous improvement and strengthens team cohesion across any industry.

Sudheer Devaraju
Staff Solutions Architect, Walmart

Blended Learning With AI-Driven Paths

The most effective on-the-job training methods combine blended learning, hands-on project work, and AI-driven personalized training paths. Our workforce benefits most from role-based microlearning, real-time coaching, and interactive simulations, which provide immediate, applicable knowledge while minimizing disruption to daily tasks.

We shifted from traditional, one-size-fits-all training due to low engagement, knowledge retention issues, and limited adaptability to evolving skill needs. Instead, we implemented a hybrid approach that includes:

AI-Powered Adaptive Learning – Uses AI-driven platforms (like Workday Learning, Coursera for Business) to personalize training based on skill gaps and job roles.

Hands-On, Project-Based Training – Employees apply new skills in real-world projects, reinforcing learning through practical experience.

Virtual Simulations & Scenario-Based Learning – Using interactive VR/AR modules and role-based simulations, employees engage in realistic problem-solving.

Peer Learning & Mentorship Programs – Encourages cross-team knowledge sharing, improving retention and collaboration.

Just-in-Time Learning Modules – Short, task-specific videos and guides embedded within workflows provide instant knowledge access without disrupting productivity.

This approach accelerated skill development, increased engagement by 40%, and reduced training costs while ensuring a continuous learning culture in an evolving workplace.

Gauri Manglik
CEO & Co-Founder, Instrumentl

Tailored Training Methods For Individuals

I’ve seen many unique methods to improve employee training in software companies, and I can tell you that the most effective ones are those that are tailored to the individual.

For example, if you’re training someone who has difficulty learning from written material, then maybe it’s better to try visual aids or videos instead. If you’re trying to teach someone something that will be useful for them almost immediately after they’ve learned it, make sure they have an opportunity to apply what they’ve learned right away so that they can see how it works in real life.

And remember: the best way to teach your employees is through practice! So while it’s important not to overwhelm them with too much information at once, it’s also important not to let them leave training without feeling like they’ve had enough practice time with whatever skills they need.

Alexandru Samoila
Head of Operations, Connect Vending

Blended Approach With Peer-To-Peer Learning

We have been tinkering with our learning and training models for a while now and continue to innovate them based on employee feedback and engagement responses. Currently, a blended approach with a focus on peer-to-peer learning using bite-sized knowledge transfers has been working well for us, particularly for new employees and trainees.

We’ve realized that beyond the first few days when the mandatory learning and training sessions are done, it’s hard for people to make time for continuous learning every day. Furthermore, a rigid learning journey with little room for flexibility and personalization led to lower engagement and knowledge retention.

As of now, we have a buddy system that encourages mentoring and exchange of knowledge through formal and informal channels, along with leveraging a learning platform to provide nudges, prompts, quick assessments and customized learning content directly to employees.

This blended format has allowed team members to collaborate and learn at their own pace, while also relaxing the formality of training modules by making them more accessible.

The HR Spotlight team thanks these industry leaders for offering their expertise and experience and sharing these insights.

Do you wish to contribute to the next HR Spotlight article? Or is there an insight or idea you’d like to share with readers across the globe?

Write to us at connect@HRSpotlight.com, and our team will help you share your insights.

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