The US Outplacement Industry: A Gartner Magic Quadrant Style Report for Human Resource Professionals

Table of Contents

Executive Summary

1. Introduction to the Outplacement Industry

2. Market Overview and Landscape

3. Key Outplacement Providers: In-depth Profiles

3.1 LHH (Lee Hecht Harrison)

3.2 Challenger, Gray & Christmas

3.3 Randstad RiseSmart

3.4 Right Management

3.5 Mercer

3.6 Intoo

4. Magic Quadrant Style Analysis

5. Conclusion

6. References​

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Executive Summary

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the US outplacement industry, designed to assist Human Resources (HR) professionals in making informed decisions when selecting outplacement service providers. It delves into market dynamics, profiles key players, examines their leadership and service offerings, and incorporates insights from real-world use cases and personal stories. The goal is to offer a Gartner-style perspective, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and unique value propositions of prominent outplacement firms.​

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1. Introduction to the Outplacement Industry

Outplacement services play a crucial role in supporting employees through career transitions, particularly during layoffs or organizational restructuring. These services are designed to help individuals find new employment opportunities faster, while simultaneously helping organizations maintain their employer brand, mitigate legal risks, and foster goodwill among remaining employees. The demand for outplacement services has evolved significantly, moving beyond traditional executive-focused support to encompass a broader range of employees and leveraging technology for more accessible and personalized solutions.

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2. Market Overview and Landscape

The US outplacement services market is a dynamic and evolving sector. The market size was valued at an estimated $4.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.7% to reach $6.9 billion by 2033.

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Factors Influencing Market Growth:

• Economic Volatility: Economic downturns and technological disruptions often lead to workforce reductions, increasing the demand for outplacement services.

• Employer Brand Protection: Companies recognize that how they treat departing employees impacts their reputation and ability to attract future talent.

• Legal and Ethical Considerations: Providing outplacement can help mitigate legal risks associated with layoffs and demonstrates a commitment to ethical business practices.

• Technological Advancements: The integration of AI, virtual coaching, and online platforms has made outplacement services more scalable, accessible, and cost-effective.

• Focus on Employee Experience: Organizations are increasingly prioritizing the overall employee experience, even during difficult transitions.

Market Segmentation:

The outplacement market can be segmented by service type (e.g., individual vs. group, executive vs. general workforce), delivery model (e.g., in-person, virtual, hybrid), and industry focus. The trend is towards more flexible, technology-driven solutions that can cater to a diverse workforce.

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3. Key Outplacement Providers: In-depth Profiles

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3.1 LHH (Lee Hecht Harrison)

LHH, a global leader in talent development and transition, is a prominent player in the outplacement industry. They offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to support individuals through career transitions and help organizations manage workforce change with compassion and efficiency. LHH's approach emphasizes personalized coaching, cutting-edge technology, and extensive resources to accelerate job placement and foster long-term career success.

Service Offerings:

• Personalized Career Coaching: One-on-one coaching with experienced career consultants

• Digital Tools and Resources: Access to an online portal (Career Resource Network - CRN) with job search tools, resume builders, interview simulators, and learning modules

• Networking Opportunities: Support in building professional networks and connecting with potential employers

• Skill Development: Resources for upskilling and reskilling to enhance marketability

• Executive Transition Services: Specialized programs for senior leaders, focusing on executive coaching, board placement, and entrepreneurial ventures

Executive Leadership:

As part of The Adecco Group, LHH's leadership team is integrated within the larger corporate structure. Key leaders include:

• Ranjit de Sousa (President, LHH): Leads the global strategy and operations for LHH

• Michelle Anthony (Chief Operating Officer, LHH): Oversees operational excellence and service delivery across LHH's global network

Pricing Information:

LHH offers various outplacement programs with pricing varying based on service level, duration, and number of participants:

• Essentials (Digital-only): Lower cost, providing access to online tools and resources

• Accelerate (Digital + Coaching): Mid-range, combining digital resources with personalized coaching sessions

• Executive (Premium Coaching): Higher cost, offering intensive one-on-one executive coaching and specialized support

Financial Information and Ownership:

LHH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Adecco Group, a global Fortune 500 company. In 2024, LHH represented 8% of The Adecco Group's total revenues and 12% of its EBITA.

Use Cases and Testimonials:

• "The best thing about my LHH journey was to learn how to network." - Candidate

• "LHH didn't just help me find a job, it helped me find the job that I want to do." - Candidate

• "The level of support from LHH is incredible." - Candidate

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3.2 Challenger, Gray & Christmas

Challenger, Gray & Christmas is one of the oldest and most respected outplacement firms in the United States, founded in 1962. They are known for their traditional, high-touch approach to outplacement, emphasizing personalized coaching and support for individuals at all career levels.

Service Offerings:

• One-on-One Coaching: Personalized guidance from experienced career coaches

• Resume and Cover Letter Development: Assistance in crafting effective job application materials

• Interview Preparation: Coaching on interview techniques, mock interviews, and feedback

• Networking Strategies: Guidance on building professional networks and leveraging connections

• Job Search Resources: Access to job boards, market intelligence, and other tools

• Negotiation Skills: Support in salary and benefits negotiation

Executive Leadership:

Challenger, Gray & Christmas is a privately held, family-owned firm:

• John Challenger (CEO): A recognized expert in employment trends and outplacement, frequently quoted in national media

• Andrew Challenger (Senior Vice President): Also a prominent voice in labor market analysis and a key leader in the firm

Financial Information:

As a privately owned company, detailed financial reports are not publicly available. Estimated revenue ranges from approximately $19.9 million to $55.9 million annually according to various sources.

Testimonials:

• "My coach took the time to really get to know me and what I was looking for. They were always available and immediately responsive." - Yelp review

• "My coach has been great so far. Informative, communicative, and has been a good sounding board..." - Reddit user

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3.3 Randstad RiseSmart

Randstad RiseSmart, a part of the global HR services giant Randstad, offers a modern, technology-driven approach to outplacement. They combine personalized coaching with an award-winning online platform to provide comprehensive career transition services, emphasizing speed to re-employment and high candidate satisfaction.

Service Offerings:

• Personalized Career Coaching: One-on-one coaching with dedicated career coaches, often with industry-specific expertise

• Proprietary Technology Platform: Online portal providing job matching, resume and social profile optimization tools, interview practice, and learning resources

• Targeted Job Leads: AI-powered job matching and curated job leads

• Resume and Social Profile Optimization: Professional assistance in creating compelling resumes and LinkedIn profiles

• Skill Development: Access to online courses and training to enhance marketability

• Financial Planning Resources: Support for managing finances during career transition

Executive Leadership:

• Dan Davenport (CEO, Randstad RiseSmart): Leads the global strategy and operations for RiseSmart, focusing on innovation and client success

Pricing Information:

Randstad RiseSmart offers flexible pricing models for Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs):

• SMB Plans: Range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per employee

• Plan Tiers: Essential, Advanced, Premium with varying levels of coaching access and resource availability

Financial Information:

Randstad RiseSmart is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Randstad N.V., which reported total revenue of €27.6 billion in 2023.

Success Stories:

Erin Gardner Testimonial: Described her coach as her "Fairy Godmother" who helped her build confidence and make a successful transition, highlighting the importance of the coach-participant relationship.

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3.4 Right Management

Right Management, a ManpowerGroup brand, is a global career and talent development expert with a strong presence in the outplacement industry. They focus on helping organizations manage change, develop talent, and transition employees with dignity and efficiency, combining local expertise with global resources.

Service Offerings:

• Personalized Career Coaching: One-on-one coaching with experienced career consultants

• Job Search Resources: Access to online tools, job boards, and market intelligence

• Resume and Interview Preparation: Assistance with crafting effective resumes and honing interview skills

• Networking Support: Guidance on building and leveraging professional networks

• Skill Assessment and Development: Tools to identify transferable skills and opportunities for upskilling

• Executive Transition Programs: Specialized support for senior leaders

Sample Pricing (Florida International University Contract):

• In-Person Coaching: $8,000 - $16,000 for 4-12 months

• Virtual Coaching: $7,000 - $14,000 for 4-12 months

• Targeted Coaching: $4,500 (single-focus, 1-2 sessions)

• On-Boarding Coaching: $4,500 (supports leaders in new roles)

Note: These prices are from a specific contract and may not reflect current rates.

Financial Information:

Right Management is part of ManpowerGroup (NYSE: MAN), which reported total revenue of $19.4 billion in 2024.

Testimonials:

• Real Estate Executive: "Their coach helped them leverage resources and realize their true passion for rebooting their marketing business after being suddenly laid off."

• Food & Beverage Executive: "Expressed gratitude for their coach's wisdom and mentorship that led to a board position."

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3.5 Mercer

Mercer, a business of Marsh McLennan, is a global consulting leader in health, wealth, and career. Their outplacement services are part of their broader career solutions, focusing on helping organizations manage workforce transitions with empathy and efficiency while leveraging extensive HR consulting expertise and technology.

Service Offerings:

• Unlimited, On-Demand, One-on-One Coaching: Access to master's educated coaches with extensive experience, available 7 days a week via text, phone, or video chat

• Resume and Cover Letter Development: Professional assistance in crafting compelling application materials

• Interview Preparation: Guides, in-depth preparation, and video interview practice

• AI-Powered Tools: Utilization of AI assistants (e.g., Ayla) for resume and cover letter crafting, and AI-powered job finding assistance

• Real-time Job Search Capabilities: Dynamic job alerts and early access to job leads

• Upskilling and Reskilling Courses: Integration with online learning platforms for continuous professional development

• Personal Assessments and Workshops: Tools to help individuals identify strengths and career paths

Pricing Information:

Mercer positions its virtual, comprehensive outplacement services as being 30% to 50% of the cost of traditional outplacement solutions. This cost-effectiveness allows organizations to support a broader range of impacted employees.

Financial Information:

Mercer is a business of Marsh McLennan (NYSE: MMC). In Q1 2025, Mercer's revenue was $1.5 billion, an increase of 5% compared to the previous year. However, the Career revenue segment saw a 1% decrease on an underlying basis.

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3.6 Intoo

Intoo, part of Gi Group Holding, is a modern outplacement provider known for its coaching-first, technology-driven approach. They aim to accelerate career transitions by connecting individuals with experienced career coaches and providing a comprehensive online platform with various job search resources.

Service Offerings:

• Unlimited, On-Demand Coaching: Access to experienced career coaches via phone, video, or chat

• Online Platform: User-friendly platform with tools for resume building, interview preparation, and job search management

• AI-Powered Job Matching: Technology to connect individuals with relevant job opportunities

• Skill Assessments and Training: Resources for identifying strengths and developing new skills

• Networking Support: Guidance on leveraging professional networks

• Specialized Programs: Tailored support for various career levels, from entry-level to executive

Executive Leadership:

• Yair Riemer (CEO, Intoo US): Leads the US operations, focusing on strategic growth and client success

Financial Information:

Intoo is a subsidiary of Gi Group Holding, which reported revenues of €3.9 billion in FY2023, representing a 6.4% increase year-over-year.

Success Stories:

• Roger Slowinski: After 28 years with one company, Intoo helped him create a modern resume and navigate online applications, leading to a new technician position during the pandemic

• Raymond (National Sales Director): Landed a dream opportunity at Amazon with Intoo's outplacement solution

• Baby Djojonegoro: Found a job in healthcare with the help of Intoo's coaching, particularly benefiting from interview process guidance

Key Claim: Intoo's virtual outplacement solution helps transitioning employees land their next job 2.5 times faster than the national average.

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4. Magic Quadrant Style Analysis: Evaluating Outplacement Providers

This Gartner-style Magic Quadrant style analysis evaluates providers based on two primary criteria: Completeness of Vision and Ability to Execute. This provides a qualitative assessment based on publicly available information gathered in this report.

4.1 Completeness of Vision

Assesses a provider's understanding of the market, innovation, and strategic direction:

• LHH: Strong vision with technology integration and global reach

• Randstad RiseSmart: Clear vision centered on technology-driven outplacement and rapid re-employment

• Mercer: Vision integrated into broader HR strategy with emphasis on virtual, cost-effective solutions

• Intoo: Strong vision for coaching-first, technology-enabled model

• Right Management: Solid vision rooted in expertise and global reach

• Challenger, Gray & Christmas: Clear vision focused on high-touch, personalized coaching

4.2 Ability to Execute

Evaluates a provider's capacity to deliver on its vision:

• LHH: Strong execution due to global infrastructure and extensive coach network

• Randstad RiseSmart: Strong execution in leveraging technology for efficient service delivery

• Right Management: Solid execution benefiting from ManpowerGroup's global presence

• Mercer: Strong execution in delivering virtual, comprehensive solutions

• Challenger, Gray & Christmas: Strong execution in high-touch, personalized services

• Intoo: Effective execution in coaching-first, technology-enabled model

4.3 Magic Quadrant Style Positioning

Leaders:

Providers who execute well on their current vision and are well-positioned for the future: LHH, Randstad RiseSmart

Challengers:

Providers who execute well today but may have a less developed vision for the future: Right Management, Mercer

Visionaries:

Providers who have a strong vision for the future but may not yet execute as effectively as Leaders: Intoo

Niche Players:

Providers who focus on a small market segment or are limited in their ability to innovate on a broader scale: Challenger, Gray & Christmas

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5. Conclusion

The US outplacement industry is a vital component of modern workforce management, offering critical support to individuals navigating career transitions and enabling organizations to manage change responsibly. The market is characterized by a blend of established players with traditional, high-touch approaches and innovative firms leveraging technology to deliver scalable and efficient solutions.

For HR professionals, selecting an outplacement provider requires a careful evaluation of several factors, including the provider's service offerings, coaching methodology, technological capabilities, pricing structure, and overall track record. While larger, globally integrated firms like LHH, Randstad RiseSmart, Mercer, and Right Management offer extensive resources and broad reach, specialized providers like Challenger, Gray & Christmas and Intoo excel in delivering highly personalized and focused support.

The trend towards virtual and technology-enabled outplacement is clear, driven by the need for cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and speed. However, the human element of personalized coaching remains paramount, as evidenced by the numerous testimonials highlighting the invaluable role of career coaches in guiding individuals through challenging times.

Ultimately, the 'best' outplacement provider is subjective and depends on the specific needs and priorities of the organization and its departing employees. This report aims to provide a foundational understanding of the key players and their offerings, empowering HR professionals to make informed decisions that align with their organizational values and support their workforce effectively.

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6. References

1. LinkedIn Pulse. US Outplacement Services Market: Unveiling... https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/us-outplacement-services-market-unveiling-iy3gf/

2. LHH Shop. Outplacement. https://shop.lhh.com/collections/outplacement

3. The Adecco Group. Annual Report 2024. https://www.adeccogroup.com/-/media/project/adecco-group/adeccogroup/pdf-files/2025-march/the-adecco-group-annual-report-2024.pdf

4. Reddit. LHH Outplacement Services - is it worth my time? https://www.reddit.com/r/GeneralMotors/comments/1exrj88/lhh_outplacement_services_is_it_worth_my_time/

5. Medium. Behind the Scenes: My High-Stakes Job Hunt with LHH. https://medium.com/@doomdai/behind-the-scenes-my-high-stakes-job-hunt-with-lhh-9ded063716c1

6. ZoomInfo. Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. https://www.zoominfo.com/c/challenger-gray--christmas-inc/23827244

7. Zippia. Challenger, Gray & Christmas Revenue. https://www.zippia.com/challenger-gray-christmas-careers-331845/revenue/

8. Growjo. Challenger Gray and Christmas Revenue and Competitors. https://growjo.com/company/Challenger_Gray_and_Christmas

9. Yelp. Challenger Gray & Christmas - Employment Agencies. https://www.yelp.com/biz/challenger-gray-and-christmas-chicago-5

10. Glassdoor. Challenger, Gray & Christmas Career Transition Coach Reviews. https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Challenger-Gray-and-Christmas-Career-Transition-Coach-Reviews-EI_IE26499.0,29_KO30,53.htm

11. TheLayoff.com. Has anyone previously laid off had luck with the Challenger, Gray... https://www.thelayoff.com/t/1uUSYMZ8

12. Randstad Enterprise. Outplacement Pricing & Plans. https://www.randstadenterprise.com/solutions/talent-transition/outplacement/pricing-and-plans/

13. Randstad. Annual Report 2023. https://www.randstad.com/investor-relations/results-and-reports/annual-reports/

14. YouTube. Randstad RiseSmart x Erin Gardner participant testimonial. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=231W8e-ZvPQ

15. Gartner Peer Insights. Randstad Risesmart Outplacement Services Reviews. https://www.gartner.com/reviews/market/outplacement-services/vendor/randstad-risesmart/product/randstad-risesmart-outplacement-services

16. Reddit. Does anyone have experience with EY's RiseSmart career transition... https://www.reddit.com/r/Accounting/comments/13jotuk/does_anyone_have_experience_with_eys_risesmart/

17. Florida International University. FIU Right Management Price Sheet - PUR-02779. https://controller.fiu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2021/03/PUR-02779-RIGHT-MANAGE-PriceSheet.pdf

18. ManpowerGroup. Annual Report 2024. https://ir.manpowergroup.com/financials/annual-reports/default.aspx

19. Right Management Florida/Caribbean. Testimonials: Real Stories. https://rightflorida.com/testimonials/

20. iMercer. Virtual, Comprehensive Outplacement Services. https://www.imercer.com/outplacement

21. Marsh McLennan. MMC 1Q 2025 Ex99.1 News Release. https://www.marshmclennan.com/web-assets/files-for-download/investors/2025/pdf-2025-marsh-mclennan-investors-1q-news-release.pdf

22. Gi Group Holding. FY2023 Results & Highlights. https://www.gigroupholding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/FY2023-Results-and-Highlights_Digital_Final.pdf

23. Intoo. Various Success Stories. https://www.intoo.com/us/blog/

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Compiling this report took significant time and effort.

We apologize for any errors or mistakes.

If you found an error or omission please contact us and we will amend it.