How to Handle Getting Laid Off:

Your Complete Guide to Bouncing Back

In today’s unpredictable economy, layoffs have sadly become a common reality. If you have recently lost your job, you are probably grappling with a whirlwind of emotions and questions about what comes next. Understanding how to handle getting laid off can make a tremendous difference in your confidence and future prospects.

Immediate Practical Steps After a Layoff

The first steps after being laid off are crucial for your security and peace of mind. Make sure to:

• Clarify severance and benefits: Confirm the details about your severance package, benefits continuation, and any owed compensation.

• Apply for unemployment: File for unemployment benefits right away to avoid gaps in your income.

• Review your finances: Assess your savings and monthly expenses so you know your financial runway.

Prioritize Self-Care: Addressing the Emotional Impact

Losing a job isn’t just a financial blow. It can also be emotionally distressing. Experiencing a wide range of feelings such as shock, denial, anger, or sadness is completely normal. Give yourself permission to process these emotions:

• Allow yourself time to grieve: You may go through the classic stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. This process is entirely normal.

• Practice self-compassion: Remind yourself that being laid off is a common occurrence and not a reflection of your worth or ability.

• Seek support: Lean on friends, family, or a support group. Talking about your feelings can help lessen their weight.

• Maintain your well-being: Take care of your health with regular exercise, good nutrition, sleep, and activities that reduce stress.

Reframe the Situation: Your Career Is Still on Track

While losing a job can feel like a setback, it is important to recognize that a layoff is not a statement about your value or talent. Especially in today’s economy, job loss is more about business realities than employee performance. Use this as an opportunity to pause, reassess your goals, and chart your next move.

Don’t Burn Bridges: Stay Professional and Connected

You may be hurting, but maintaining your professionalism is key:

• Stay composed: Don’t take out your frustration on your employer or colleagues. Remember, you may want or need references and your professional reputation matters.

• Request references: Ask your manager or coworkers for references or written recommendations right away while your contributions are top of mind.

• Notify your network: Let trusted colleagues know that you are available and seeking new opportunities. Be honest, brief, and professional. You never know who can help or where the next lead will come from.

Reflect Your Layoff Honestly on Your Resume

There is no shame in being laid off, and honesty is always the best policy. On your resume, you can note the reason for leaving each role, for example: “Position eliminated due to company-wide layoff.” Recruiters and future employers understand the broader economic context, and transparency builds trust.

Should You Take Any Available Job or Wait for the Right One?

Big question…a perfect question. Many job seekers are forced to consider a career compromise. We go into depth on what to think about if faced with this choice in this article, but here are a few key considerations:

• Don’t rush into the wrong role: If possible, take the time to reflect on your next career move. Align your next position with your long-term goals.

• Consider temporary or consulting work: If you need income, consulting and contract work can keep your skills sharp and your resume active without sidetracking your career ambitions.

• If you must, be strategic: Don’t be concerned with gaps on your resume. Additionally, don’t worry about explaining the need to take a short-term role outside your usual scope. There are professional ways to explain this later. Should you need guidance on representing these moves on your resume, just reach out and we can help.

Establish a Smart Job Search Strategy

Once you’re ready, it’s time to get organized in your job search:

• Update your resume and LinkedIn profile: Clearly highlight your accomplishments and skills. Be honest but confident in your career narrative.

• Activate your network: Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and industry groups.

• Set achievable goals: Dedicate specific time blocks for job searching, networking, and skill-building each day.

• Prepare for interviews: Practice your answers, especially when discussing your layoff. Focus on what you learned and how you’re ready for new challenges.

Consider Engaging a Career Coach

A layoff can be an excellent opportunity to reassess your skills and direction. Working with a career coach can help you:

• Clarify your goals: Figure out what you really want in this next chapter of your career.

• Polish your personal brand: Get professional advice on fine-tuning your resume, LinkedIn profile, and interviewing skills.

• Stay accountable: Coaches can provide support, structure, and motivation through your job hunt.

• Explore upskilling: A coach can help you identify areas for growth and recommend resources for upskilling or reskilling.

Remember: This Won’t Last Forever

No matter how discouraged you may feel today, remember: you will find a new job. Many have walked this path before. And often, a layoff positions you for an even better opportunity down the road.

Take care of yourself, leverage your network, and be strategic in your search. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to our recruitment team, career coach, or mentor for guidance.

Above all, give yourself grace. You’re not alone in experiencing a layoff. And with each step forward, you are moving closer to a fresh start.