Corporate Responsibility: Ending the "Outsource, Dump, and Forget" Mentality

Dear LinkedIn Community,?

As the festive season approaches, a time meant for joy and celebration, countless families in our community are instead facing heartbreak and uncertainty. This is the direct result of a troubling trend in corporate behaviour—big corporations in Australia are outsourcing call centre services to contractors, only to abruptly sever ties for cheaper options, leaving hardworking people out of a job just before Christmas.?

This pattern of outsourcing and abandonment is more than a business decision; it is a failure of corporate responsibility. The ripple effects of these decisions go far beyond the balance sheets of multinational corporations. They devastate communities, dismantle livelihoods, and erode trust in companies that claim to be invested in their customers and employees.?

The Human Cost of Outsourcing?

Outsourcing may reduce immediate costs, but it comes at a steep price. The dedicated call centre staff who represent the face and voice of these corporations often work tirelessly to resolve customer issues and maintain brand loyalty. Despite their hard work, they are treated as expendable—hired by third-party contractors and discarded when a cheaper provider is found. These employees are not just numbers; they are parents, students, and community members striving to make ends meet. Losing their jobs, especially during the holiday season, is more than inconvenient—it is life-altering.?

The Impact on Customers?

This "outsource, dump, and forget" mentality not only harms employees but also fails customers. Outsourced call centres often lack the training, institutional knowledge, and commitment to service that direct employees possess. Customers are left frustrated by inconsistent support, miscommunication, and a lack of accountability. Is it any wonder that brand loyalty falters when corporations appear more concerned with cutting costs than serving the very people who sustain their businesses??

A Call for Corporate Accountability?

It is time for corporations to re-evaluate their priorities and take a stand for ethical business practices. A responsible corporation does not treat its workforce as a disposable commodity. It invests in them, values their contributions, and recognizes that a well-supported employee is key to delivering exceptional service. By bringing call centre operations back in-house, corporations can ensure quality service for their customers while providing stability and fair treatment for their employees.?

Moreover, corporations have a duty to lead by example, demonstrating that profitability and ethical practices can—and should—go hand in hand. Supporting their workforce is not only the right thing to do; it also builds goodwill and trust, which are invaluable assets in today’s competitive market.?

A Plea for Change?

The festive season should be a time of generosity and reflection, not a time when hardworking individuals are cast aside for cheaper alternatives. Big corporations must look beyond short-term gains and embrace a more compassionate, responsible approach to business. I urge Telstra, and others like it, to end the cycle of outsourcing and abandonment. Keep jobs in-house. Value the people who represent your brand. Support the communities that have supported you.?

It’s time to put people first—because a company that values its employees and customers will always find long-term success.?

We Want to Hear From You?

To the Workers Affected:

If you’ve been impacted by recent outsourcing decisions and job cuts, we encourage you to share your story. Your experiences matter and deserve to be heard. Together, we can shine a light on the human cost of these decisions and advocate for change. Please leave your comments or reach out via email.?

To Employers:

Are you looking for hardworking, dedicated individuals ready to make an immediate impact? Many of these displaced workers possess valuable skills in customer service, communication, and problem-solving. They are ready to bring their expertise to your team. If you have opportunities available, please let us know via email.?

Let’s help connect talented people with meaningful work.?

Sincerely,

?

Dean Howell

[email protected]