No one knows how to do layoffs. The psychology secrets to doing it humanely

Laying people off takes its toll. 

“Going back 25 years plus ago, I can still remember every situation that I had to do it in,” says Robert Kovach, a work psychologist and former corporate executive.

The experience sticks with you, he says. Because it’s not just about “operational stress: Have I filled out the forms? Made the calls?” It’s also filled with “moral stress,” he adds. 

“Even when the decision is necessary, it can feel like a violation of your own personal...