Provider checklist for companies
Here's what you as a company should consider when choosing a newplacement / outplacement provider.
Provider selection
What options do you have?
If you would like to support employees affected by layoffs in their career reorientation, there are several options:
a) You enter into a contract with a newplacement service provider and offer its support to the employees
b) You give employees a budget for outplacement and let them choose a provider.
c) They offer employees either a newplacement budget or a higher severance payment.
We have found that employees often underestimate their need for support during the professional transition phase. Furthermore, they are often unaware that, unlike severance pay, a newplacement budget is tax-free.
If you want to effectively support your employees during the challenging reorientation phase, we therefore advise against option (c). Option (b) can be useful for providing the best possible support for individual needs, but only if you recommend a suitable selection of service providers. The market is very opaque, and employees are often disappointed with their choice afterward.
Your provider checklist
When choosing a provider, we recommend paying attention to the following 7 aspects:
Flexible, Personalized Support
Personal experience, emotional stability, and individual support needs differ from person to person. It is therefore important that employees have a say in the focus areas and pace of the support they receive, rather than being put through a rigid program.
Quality & Experience
The coaches providing individual counseling should have extensive expertise, professional coaching training, and a strong track record.
Focus on Orientation
The service provider should not only help with the job search, but also with career reorientation, including identifying personal skills, interests, and career goals. A "success guarantee" is risky in this context: it often leads to employees being "pushed" into the first available job with as little time investment as possible, a job in which they may not be happy.
Use of Modern Tools
Modern digital tools, such as digital guides, self-assessments, headhunter databases, CV optimization, a journal, and the like, ensure that coaches can truly focus on in-depth sparring.
Not only professional, but also emotional support
Eine positive, optimistische Haltung macht mehr als 50% des Erfolgs in der beruflichen Neuorientierung aus.
Sufficient consultation time
Newplacement programs should not be too short in duration. If limited to 3 or 6 months, the counseling period may end before the next step has been determined. If support runs out right in the middle of the application phase, it can create a sense of pressure and uncertainty.
Cost transparency
Coaching packages and other components of the offer should be transparent to avoid excessive margins for the provider. High-quality support should not cost more than €4,000 plus VAT.
How does outplacement work?
At Restart Career, we support affected employees in four phases over a period of up to 12 months.
Step back, process what you've experienced, and look back with intention. Which strengths carried you? What worked, and what didn't? You gain clarity about your experiences and lay the foundation for your next step.
Farewell & Reflection
Based on your strengths and your current life situation, you develop a clear vision for your future. Which role suits you? What should your work environment look like? You define where your path should lead – one that is both realistic and motivating.
Orientation & Goal Setting
You take your next steps – towards a job or self-employment. We optimize your profile, activate your network, and guide you through the application process. This way, you won't miss any relevant opportunities.
Seize opportunities
The new beginning is here – and the first few months are crucial. You'll find your footing in your new role, overcome challenges, and build confidence. This is how your fresh start will be sustainably successful.
