By Thomas Achenbach
Thomas Achenbach argues that every company should have an emergency folder for cases of grief — not only when an employee dies, but also when an employee experiences a major loss in private life.
When a colleague’s spouse, child or teammate dies, uncertainty and speechlessness quickly arise in the workplace. Although grief is private, private life affects work. Managers are usually the first points of contact, but most are not prepared for these situations.
The article proposes a practical “grief emergency folder” containing basic information on grief, contacts for counselling, internal company rules, guidance for condolence letters, sample texts for notices, ideas for condolence books, rituals and best-practice examples, and advice on handling the workplace of a deceased employee with dignity.
Achenbach stresses that this is not only humane but also relevant to workplace health and productivity. Sensitive, competent and appreciative support can make the world of work more human.
