Elements of Rapid Response:

Early intervention is critical.

Workers being laid off will accept help more readily before their layoff than after. Workers who accept help and start working to become employed are rehired quicker and at higher wages than those who wait. Early notification of layoffs can help workers with the time necessary to prepare and organize. Knowledge is power! The more options people are given, the better and quicker the process.

Cooperation and participation is helpful

Prospects of future employment are increased by undertaking job search while still employed. Strong and active participation by the business, HR, the unions or other employee representatives gives greater trust by workers. In most cases, networked public agencies are the only organizations that possess the vast resources and diverse forms of assistance to be most effective during layoffs.

Good Programs offer a full range of options to meet differing needs and conditions.

Good programs include personal financial planning and assessment of worker's background and skills. A full menu of job search skills training and assistance strategies is essential. This includes on-the job training and active job development. Basic skills remediation can be important where low-skilled workers have worked in narrowly defined jobs.  Skills training is an important feature for a well designed and effective program.