It’s the worst part of a Human Resources manager’s job: laying off employees. But remember there is an opportunity to impact – positively – how someone feels about his or her job tenure, themselves, and the company at a pivotal moment.

Here are some tips to make the most of that opportunity:

Can you believe there are still people who doubt the power of technology?

Recently, a legacy outplacement services firm tried to position technology as the enemy of a successful job search in a press release. It’s as if they think transitioning workers just sit in front of their home computer hoping a new job will magically land in their inbox!

Mergers and acquisitions make for some of the most challenging times in the life a business. During periods of such risk, stress and uncertainty, top management relies heavily on Human Resources managers. They have a unique opportunity to positively impact the efficiency of the restructured entity. Studies have shown that in the first six months following a merger, productivity may fall by as much as 50%, so HR leaders must be prepared to take action.