Helping employees cope with the death of a colleague or co-worker is not typically covered in leadership training or employee handbooks. However, the pandemic and other public health crises have prompted many organizations to create policies that address the needs of grieving employees while still achieving business outcomes.
Helping Employees Cope with the Death of a Co-Worker
SHRM | Jun 2022
How to Lead When an Employee Dies
SHRM | Dec 2020
Working Through the Death of a Top Executive
SHRM | Mar 2020
Coping with the Death of an Employee
Cigna | 2020
Working Through the Death of a Colleague
Harvard Business Review | Nov 2020
4 steps for navigating bereavement in the workplace
The HR Director | Nov 2020
How to Support Employees Through Grief and Loss
SHRM | Aug 2017
Tools and Samples
Sample Announcement Letter
Checklist
How should I handle a final paycheck, taxes and benefits for a recently deceased employee?
Bereavement Leave Policy
SHRM
Death of an Employee
University of Oregon
Death or Illness of a Coworker
Coping with a Loss
BUMC
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Additional Articles
The death of an employee requires a delicate balance of compassion and compliance while still meeting the operational demands of the business. No person or company is ever completely prepared for the unexpected death of an employee; however, recognizing ahead of time the challenges it can pose and preparing accordingly will go a long way toward mitigating the confusion and ensuring a smooth transition during a very difficult time.
How to Handle the Passing of an Employee
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No one wants to think about an employee passing away. But when it happens, it's important to think about how your company can help your employees through the difficult time. Having a plan and establishing some guidelines before a death occurs, will make everything much easier for your employees and managers.
4 Questions to Consider When Handling the Death of an Employee
Paycom | Feb 2018
When an employee passes away, you need time to process your emotions. But as an HR professional, there are also timely actions you should take to help your workforce grieve, and a few things you'll need to address to remain compliant. While the death of an employee is never easy, it's important to ensure any compliance matters are handled consistently with your current policies but with added grace.
Staying Compliant After the Death of an Employee
Paycom | Feb 2018
How to Handle the Death of an Employee in Your Small Business
Patriot Software | Feb 2019
What to Do When an Employee Dies
West Sound Workforce
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