Death is not something that most of like to think about, much less talk about. But it IS a real part of life and something that affects us all. When a company loses an employee unexpectedly, it is a big blow that can impact morale and productivity.

That is why it is necessary to have a plan in place to not only help your employees deal with their emotions when it comes to the death of a coworker, but also to help the company or department continue to function while navigating the loss.

“As an employer you have to understand that many of your employees are like family to each other and coworkers may need some time for bereavement depending on how closely they all worked together,” advises Esther Pipoly, founder of Loss of Life Advocates (LOLA), a company designed to help both individuals and corporations as they prepare for or deal with loss. “Providing support and checking in with the team for several weeks is important in the transition through grief.”

Other tips Pipoly offers for employers include:

Setting up a time to visit with employees to provide any facts about the death and any funeral arrangements.

Creating a HOT item checklist.

• H: How to evaluate what work is on the former employee’s desk.
• O: Outsourcing any work if necessary.
• T: Transferring work to other employees when possible.

Providing an e-mail script for employees to send out to clients of the deceased, along with contact information for the person who will be handling any outstanding work.

Providing a script for employees to use to address any client questions regarding the deceased. Many times clients want to know details, and a script helps those employees who are uncomfortable providing the information, and it keeps everyone on the same page.

Providing on site employee assistance counselors to visit with anyone needing grief support.

Taking these steps shows your employees that you care about their well being, which can provide a feeling of stability and security during a time when things can feel uncertain and confusing. Although it is unpleasant, being prepared to handle death can make it easier for you and your employees to get on with life.