Outplacement Services Chicago: How to Find the Right Partner for Your Team
Chicago is a city built on hard work and resilience, and its workforce reflects that spirit. From corporate offices in the Loop to manufacturing hubs in the suburbs, every sector depends on people to keep business moving.
But when layoffs or restructuring happen, employers have an important decision to make: how to help their departing employees move forward with dignity and direction.
That’s where outplacement services come in. These programs provide career transition resources—resume building, interview coaching, job search guidance, and more—to help employees land their next opportunity faster while preserving the employer’s brand and morale within the remaining team.
If you’re looking for outplacement services in Chicago, you’ll find a variety of options, from large national firms to smaller, specialized providers (including virtual ones that serve Chicago-based companies). Here’s what you need to know.
What to Look for in a Chicago Outplacement Service
Not all outplacement services are created equal. The right partner for your business will depend on your workforce, budget, and company culture. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Industry and Role Specialization
If you’re laying off a specific type of employee—such as hourly manufacturing workers, IT staff, or healthcare professionals—look for providers who understand those markets and can tailor services accordingly.
2. Accessibility for All Employees
Outplacement shouldn’t just be for executives. Make sure your provider offers options that work for employees at all levels, especially hourly and frontline staff.
3. Virtual vs. In-Person Options
Some employees thrive in a one-on-one, in-person setting, while others prefer digital tools they can access on their own schedule. The best services offer both flexibility and convenience.
4. Breadth of Tools and Resources
A strong outplacement program should go beyond resume editing. Look for providers that offer interview prep, job search strategies, networking tips, skills assessments, and access to job leads.
5. Transparent Pricing
Costs should be clear and predictable. Avoid services that bury fees in fine print or require large upfront retainers without explaining what’s included.
Outplacement Services Serving the Chicago Area
Here’s a look at several providers—both local and virtual—that serve Chicago-based businesses and employees.
1. ShiftAgain
ShiftAgain specializes in affordable outplacement for hourly and frontline employees. Their programs include access to PruE AI, a career coaching platform with 10 powerful tools like an AI Resume Builder, AI Cover Letter Builder, LinkedIn optimization, interview prep, skills gap analysis, and more.
ShiftAgain also pairs technology with live human support, so employees can get their questions answered quickly. For Chicago companies with diverse workforces and tight budgets, ShiftAgain is a flexible, high-value option.
2. TurboTransitions
TurboTransitions offers virtual outplacement services for employees at all levels. Based in the U.S., they focus on making career transition support accessible, efficient, and results-oriented.
TurboTransitions provides resume writing, interview preparation, job search strategy, and ongoing support through an intuitive online platform. Since it’s virtual, Chicago companies can easily roll it out to employees across multiple locations without logistics headaches.
3. Kensington International
Headquartered in Oak Brook, Kensington International has been serving the Chicagoland area for decades.
They offer career transition and executive outplacement services, along with leadership coaching and organizational consulting. Their Chicago roots make them a solid option for employers wanting a local provider with a deep understanding of the Midwest job market.
4. Challenger, Gray & Christmas
Founded in Chicago, Challenger, Gray & Christmas is one of the oldest names in the outplacement industry.
They offer both group workshops and individualized coaching, as well as executive transition services. Their long history in the city means they have well-established employer connections in multiple industries.
5. LHH (Lee Hecht Harrison)
LHH is a global outplacement and talent development firm with a presence in Chicago. They offer scalable programs for both large corporate layoffs and smaller workforce reductions.
Their services include career coaching, skills development, and a broad digital platform for job seekers.
Why Local Companies Are Investing in Outplacement
For employers, offering outplacement services isn’t just about helping employees—it’s also about protecting the company’s culture and brand. In a city as interconnected as Chicago, word travels fast.
The way you handle layoffs can impact everything from Glassdoor reviews to future hiring efforts.
Providing structured, compassionate support for departing employees shows your commitment to people, even in tough times. It also reassures the team members who remain that they’re working for a company that values dignity and fairness.
Making the Right Choice
When choosing an outplacement provider in Chicago, think beyond the name recognition. Consider your employees’ needs, the types of roles being eliminated, and the format that will work best for your team.
A tech-savvy hourly worker in Joliet might value mobile-friendly, self-paced tools, while an executive in the Loop might prefer high-touch, one-on-one coaching.
Whether you go with a Chicago-based firm or a virtual service that serves Chicago companies, the goal is the same: make sure your people leave with the resources, skills, and confidence they need to succeed in their next chapter.
Final Thoughts
Chicago’s workforce is diverse, resilient, and always evolving. By partnering with the right outplacement service, you can help your departing employees navigate change while protecting your reputation as an employer of choice.
Options like ShiftAgain and TurboTransitions make it possible to offer meaningful support to all employees, not just a select few. In a city built on connections, that kind of integrity matters.
Tags: outplacement services chicago, career transition services in chicago
Author: Reid Alexander
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only & not intended as professional legal or HR advice. Consult with qualified professionals for advice tailored to your specific situation. The author & publisher disclaim any liability for errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this content.