Grief Management

Losing a colleague isn’t just about an empty desk or a missing team member in the daily stand-up. It’s a deeply human experience that leaves its mark on everyone—whether it’s the co-worker who shared a morning coffee ritual or the manager who relied on them to steady the team. Grief in the workplace is heavy, and as a leader, how you respond can either help your team heal or leave them feeling unsupported.

So, where do you start? Here’s a roadmap to help navigate this difficult terrain:

1. Acknowledge the Loss Openly

It might feel easier to brush past it, but ignoring a colleague’s passing sends the wrong message. Gather your team—whether in person or virtually—and address the loss directly. Be honest, empathetic, and human. Something as simple as, “We’ve lost someone dear to us, and it’s okay to feel however you’re feeling right now,” can make a world of difference.

2. Allow Time to Grieve

Grief isn’t something you “get over” in a day or two. Give your team space to process. That might mean offering flexible working arrangements, lighter workloads, or even a day off for the funeral. Be mindful that grief looks different for everyone—some might throw themselves into work, while others need time to step back. Both are okay.

3. Bring in Professional Support

This isn’t a moment to wing it. Consider engaging grief counsellors or Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) to provide professional support. Sometimes, just knowing help is available can ease the burden.

4. Create Moments for Connection

Whether it’s a memorial lunch, a shared tribute, or even a small corner of the office dedicated to memories, give your team a chance to reflect and honour their colleague. It’s not just about closure—it’s about keeping their memory alive in a way that feels meaningful.

5. Keep the Conversation Going

Grief doesn’t stick to a schedule. Weeks or months later, a team member might still be struggling, triggered by a birthday or even a quiet moment in the office. Regular check-ins show you care beyond the immediate aftermath. Ask open questions like, “How are you holding up?” and be ready to listen.

6. Lead with Compassion

As a leader, you might feel pressure to stay strong, but vulnerability is a strength. It’s okay to admit that you’re feeling the loss too. Showing your human side helps your team feel less alone.

Grief in the Workplace: A Shared Journey

When a colleague passes, it’s not just an individual loss—it’s a collective one. How you handle this moment will shape your team’s resilience and trust in you as a leader.