I have been on the "survived" side of layoffs a number of times and on the other side once. I agree with almost everything here except the "not lock them out of

I have been on the "survived" side of layoffs a number of times and on the other side once. I agree with almost everything here except the "not lock them out of accounts" part. As much as it sucks, you have to do this asap. While most people will behave most of the time, getting laid off is one of those times where everything goes a little out of focus and people make dumb decisions without thinking things through. They may do it in a way that only reflects on them but quite often it can reflect on the company and sow more doubt and fear in the organization. I think the most important part for going forward is the first meeting post-layoffs. Rumors will be forming, tensions will be high, and some people will still be texting with the friend you just fired. This will be the best - and potentially only - time to kill some of those wild ideas before they become rumors.