Navigating Layoffs with Compassion and Compliance
Deborah Jeffries, HR Answers, Inc.
This is a hybrid event and will be held in-person and via Zoom. The speaker will be in-person.
In-person: Tall Firs Cafe & Events (1488 18th St., Springfield, OR, 97477). Breakfast will be provided for in-person attendees. Free parking on-site.
Virtual: Zoom meeting details will be emailed to each attendee the morning of the event.
Navigating Layoffs with Compassion & Compliance
Layoffs are one of the most challenging scenarios for any organization and one of the most difficult responsibilities HR professionals face. Whether due to economic downturns, restructuring, or operational shifts, handling layoffs requires thoughtful planning, clear communication, and legal awareness to minimize impact on both departing and remaining employees.
This program will explore practical strategies for navigating layoffs with transparency, empathy, and compliance while maintaining morale and engagement within your organization. We will review best practices, legal considerations, and post-layoff recovery strategies to ensure HR professionals are equipped to support employees through this difficult process.
This program has been submitted to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) for review.
Deborah Jeffries, SHRM-CP, PHR, CPC – Vice President / Senior Trainer, HR Answers, Inc.
Deborah Jeffries is an energetic and engaging HR strategist with more than 40 years of experience in Human Resources, training, education, and organizational development. As Vice President and Senior Trainer with HR Answers, Inc., she supports organizations in building effective, people-centered workplaces that thrive through strong leadership, respectful communication, and practical strategy.
Deborah is a Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR), a SHRM-Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), and a Certified Professional Consultant (CPC). Her training and consulting work spans recruitment, employee relations, customer service, team building, DEI, and her specialty—supervisory development. Clients appreciate her honest, slightly quirky facilitation style and her ability to inspire introspection and real-world action.
Known for her relatable delivery and humor, Deborah turns complex HR challenges into clear and engaging learning experiences. She has served as adjunct faculty at Marylhurst University, Portland State University, and Linfield University, where she taught HR courses and prepared business students for SHRM certification.
An active SHRM member and longtime volunteer leader, Deborah is a trusted resource for those navigating the evolving demands of today’s workplace. She is especially passionate about growing confident leaders, shaping inclusive cultures, and helping others find joy in learning.
FUN FACTS:
When she’s not leading a classroom or coaching clients, Deborah can be found in her happy places: reading, crafting, watching reality TV, or working in her garden where she grows blueberries and strawberries bigger than her thumb. She’s a fan of all things sustainable—solar panels, composting, and even living off the grid (for over six months!). Her favorite letter? M. She’s a Married Mom, a Seattle Mariners fanatic, Mustang owner, Mickey Mouse devotee, moustache admirer, Macarena dancer, and a Mocha Frappuccino + M&M connoisseur.
If you want to learn more of the formal information on Deborah, feel free to hop on the HR Answers website or her LinkedIn page. https://hranswers.com/staff/
