CEOs are getting creative with what they call laid-off workers. Here's what they should say instead.

TL;DR

Bill Winters of Standard Chartered used the term "lower-value human capital" to describe employees facing layoffs, later apologizing.
Other CEOs have used labels like "builders," "sellers," and "measurers," or stated they are letting go of "roles that do not adapt."
PR experts suggest avoiding "earnings call language" in real conversations and instead using phrases that would be acceptable if said directly to the affected person.
Blaming AI for layoffs can backfire; companies should own the decision and explain the reasoning clearly, such as restructuring due to anticipated AI capabilities.
It's crucial to separate the worker from the role, acknowledging that roles become obsolete, not people, and to offer genuine support such as severance and transition assistance.
Poor communication during layoffs can damage a company's reputation, affecting future recruitment and team morale.
Companies that communicate layoffs empathetically with concrete benefits are more likely to maintain their long-term success and reputation.

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