A reorganisation, an expiring contract or any other reason for leaving your current employer: these are situations that many people find themselves in. A outplacement agency helps you take your next step quickly and confidently in such situations. But what exactly does an agency like this do, and what can you actually expect from it?
In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about outplacement, so that you know exactly what to expect and how to get the most out of the process.
What exactly is an outplacement agency?
An outplacement agency is a specialist organisation that supports employees in their transition to a new job or career path after they leave their current role. The agency combines career coaching, self-awareness and practical job-seeking support to make that transition as smooth and sustainable as possible.
Outplacement is more than just a list of job vacancies. A good agency first helps you understand who you are, what you’re capable of, and what you want. Only once that foundation is clear will you work together on concrete steps towards a new role. This involves discovering your natural talents, refining your ambitions and learning how to present your unique profile in the job market.
Outplacement is not the same as a temporary employment agency either. A temporary employment agency places people in jobs; an outplacement agency coaches you so that you can take control of your own career. That difference makes the support more sustainable and personalised.
When is an outplacement programme used?
An outplacement programme is initiated when an employee loses their job or is leaving their role and requires professional support in finding a new position. This most commonly occurs during a reorganisation, when a role is made redundant, when a contract expires, or in a situation where the employer and employee part ways by mutual agreement.
In practice, these are the most common situations:
- A reorganisation involving the abolition of posts
- A business merger or takeover involving a change in roles
- A situation in which your role within the organisation no longer matches your skills or ambitions
- An expiring contract that is not being renewed
- A voluntary departure where the employer offers support as part of the arrangements
Outplacement can also be valuable if you feel you’ve outgrown your role and need a fresh start, but aren’t quite sure which direction you want to take. The process will help you gain clarity before you take the next step.
What specific support does an outplacement agency offer?
An outplacement agency offers practical support in the areas of self-awareness, career guidance, job-seeking skills and preparation for the job market. The exact details vary from agency to agency and from person to person, but the core always consists of personal coaching combined with practical tools.
Self-awareness and career guidance
A successful career journey begins with an understanding of who you are and what drives you. That may sound abstract, but it forms the basis of every successful career move. Some agencies use scientifically proven methods, such as the BrainsFirst methodology, which provides insight into your cognitive behavioural preferences and natural talents. That knowledge helps you make choices that truly suit you.
Practical job application support
As well as helping you develop personally, an outplacement agency will also assist you with the practical aspects of your job search. For example:
- Drafting and refining your CV and LinkedIn profile
- Practising for job interviews
- Learning to network in a way that suits you
- Understanding the current job market and how to stand out in it
- Support with negotiating terms of employment
The coaching is always tailored to your needs: you and your coach decide together on the pace and focus, depending on what you need at that particular time.
How long does an outplacement process take on average?
An outplacement programme typically lasts between three and twelve months, depending on the individual’s circumstances, the complexity of their career situation and the desired outcome. Some people find a new role within a few weeks; others deliberately take more time to reflect and decide on a new direction.
The duration depends on several factors:
- How clear you already are about what you want
- The sector and the level you are looking for
- Whether you’re looking for a similar role or want to move in a different direction
- The pace that suits you
A high-quality process doesn’t force you into a rigid timetable. The focus is on a sustainable outcome, not on speed. Nevertheless, it’s reassuring to know that most processes have a clear structure with distinct stages, so you always know where you stand and what the next step is.
Who pays for outplacement support?
In most cases, the costs of outplacement support are covered by the employer. This is a standard arrangement that is often set out in a settlement agreement or as part of a redundancy plan in the event of a reorganisation.
Employers make a conscious decision to offer outplacement because it makes the transition smoother for the employee and helps ensure a considerate and respectful departure. It is also in the employer’s interest: a well-managed departure helps to foster a positive image as an employer.
In some situations, an employee pays for the programme themselves, for example when leaving voluntarily without receiving any compensation from the employer. In such cases, it is advisable to carefully compare what different agencies offer and to assess what level of investment is realistic for your situation. Some programmes are also (partly) tax-deductible as training costs; please consult a tax adviser for further details.
How to choose the right outplacement agency?
You can choose the right outplacement agency by considering the level of personalisation, the quality of the coaches, the methods used, and how well they suit your personal situation and sector. An agency that uses a one-size-fits-all approach rarely meets the unique career needs of each individual.
When making your choice, please bear the following points in mind:
- Bespoke versus standard range: Ask specifically how the process will be tailored to your situation
- Coaches’ qualifications: Are the coaches certified and do they have proven experience?
- Methods used: Does the agency use scientifically proven tools for self-awareness and career guidance?
- Personal click: A good working relationship with your coach is essential; always ask for an introductory meeting
- Reputation and experience: Which organisations and sectors has the agency worked with in the past?
An initial meeting with an agency will quickly give you a sense of whether their approach and the people there are a good fit for you. Trust that instinct, because the relationship with your coach is key to the success of the programme.
How Nieuwkans helps with outplacement
At Nieuwkans, we believe that outplacement is a period of opportunity, not the end of the road. Based in Utrecht, we support employees with a personalised approach that is fully tailored to your situation, ambitions and pace. No one-size-fits-all programme – just bespoke support.
Here’s exactly what we do for you:
- Understanding your natural talents and behavioural preferences through the science-based BrainsFirst methodology
- Personal career coaching with an experienced coach who will help you find your direction
- Practical support on CV, LinkedIn, job interviews and networking
- Support across five carefully structured stages, from initial assessment to permanent placement
- A focus on the long term: remaining employable in a changing labour market
Want to know what a outplacement process at Nieuwkans what this could mean for you? Please feel free to contact us for a no-obligation introductory chat. Together, we’ll look at your next step.