The impact of outplacement programs on reemployment criteria: a longitudinal study of displaced managers and executives

The purpose of this study was to examine longitudinally the impact of outplacement support (e.g., counseling and psychological assessment) on several reemployment criteria. A sample of 1,880 managers and executives using the services of a large outplacement organization was examined. Controlling for past salary, severance, and demographics, results demonstrated that displaced managers and executives participating in programs that demonstrated higher levels of outplacement support took more time to find reemployment, had greater likelihood of reemployment, and had higher salaries in new jobs than individuals participating in programs with lower levels of outplacement support. Implications for organizations reducing their workforces are discussed.