The firm that you hire should take serious responsibility for your displaced employee. The best consultants will be both honest and realistic. Their job is not to necessarily find your ex-employee a new job; it is to help make the transition a smoother and a more positive experience.

In the case of a performance-based termination, the same flaws that cause the employee's termination may well continue to hamper the job search. Sometimes, however, sub-par performance is related more to environment and chemistry, than character and competence. Once that individual is taken out of the situation and shown there are other options in life, it can prove to be a wonderful new beginning.

Why would an employer want to offer outplacement services? To put it simply, GOODWILL. Unfortunately, in today's economy, we are seeing downsizings in nearly all industries. While nobody wants to be a victim of downsizing or termination; in today's world, most understand it as an unfortunate necessity. The methods used by a firm or company can affect them miles after the market has corrected itself. Honest communication, compassion and a willingness to help with your ex-employees' future can make a major difference in how your firm or company is perceived in the market. And, that in turn, affects your bottom line.