Original Vietnamese content is translated by LaoDongAI
Staff cuts are not a simple problem just revolving around numbers, so the human resources department needs certain principles to solve this problem. Photo: Bao Han
Staff cuts are not a simple problem just revolving around numbers, so the human resources department needs certain principles to solve this problem. Photo: Bao Han

Staff cuts and principles for the human resources department

Quỳnh Chi (báo lao động) 16/02/2026 06:53 (GMT+7)

When businesses have to cut personnel, the human resources department not only faces pressure from leaders but also faces employee confusion.

Anphabe company proposes 4 principles to help human resources overcome this challenge.

Strict planning

Staff cuts are not a simple problem just revolving around numbers. Let's start by comprehensively assessing the financial situation, work performance of each department and the impact of cuts on business operations. An important question needs to be asked: Which positions are really indispensable; are there alternative solutions instead of firing; what support can the business provide to affected employees?

Remember, a thoughtless decision can cause the company to lose important talents and create a wave of negativity in the organization.

Transparency

Nothing is worse than employees discovering they are about to lose their jobs through whispers instead of from the company itself. Make sure you provide information clearly and transparently: Officially inform employees about the company's situation; explain the reasons for the reduction and how to implement it; commit to supporting them in the transition process.

Humanity in every decision

Affected employees not only lose income but also face insecurity and career disorientation. As a manager, you can help them overcome this stage by: Providing support packages such as severance allowances, unemployment insurance, or temporary financial support; introducing jobs by connecting with other businesses, supporting them to find new opportunities; supporting training by providing courses for them to improve their skills and find suitable jobs.

Stabilize the spirit of employees staying

Staff cuts not only affect those who leave but also leave fear for those who remain. If you don't manage well, you may face employee morale, reduced performance, and even proactive resignation.

Advice for the human resources and management department: Communicate clearly to avoid rumors and confusion; create motivation by recognizing employees' efforts; provide a clear development roadmap so that they are assured to stick with the company.

Consider alternatives

Before deciding to cut, consider other options: Cutting unnecessary costs by re-evaluating the marketing budget, office space, and unoptimized expenses; restructuring work by adjusting workloads between groups instead of eliminating positions; temporary salary reductions to help retain the team when the economy recovers.

See the original here