So a reduction in force (a “RIF”) is basically just a layoff or eliminating of a position. While you can always count the number of humans laid off at companies across America, it is important to consider that eliminated positions could make our recovery efforts even worse.

For example, a company that lays off 2 employees but reduces 8 other positions could be more detrimental to overall employment 6 months from now than a company with 5 laid off employees. There is no injured human, no severance pay, no lawsuits, and no tearful goodbyes. That is why many companies choose reduction of positions. As far as I know, that is how the federal government handles things as well. It is a good alternative to layoffs but it takes time and I am not convinced its long-term effects are any better for the economy.