What to Do After a Layoff: A Step-by-Step Guide

Facing a layoff can be an overwhelming and emotional experience, but it’s crucial to approach the situation strategically. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a layoff to navigate the transition effectively:

1. Reconfigure Your Mindset:

• Shift from Blame to Reality: Understand that a layoff is not a reflection of your skills but often a result of external factors affecting the company’s operations.
• Focus on Well-being: Take time for self-care activities, whether it’s yoga, meditation, or engaging in hobbies. A positive mindset is essential for a successful job search.

2. Document Your Accomplishments:

• Use CARL or STAR(T) Methods: Reflect on your accomplishments using the Context, Action, Result, Learning (CARL) or Situation, Task, Action, Result + Takeaways (STAR(T)) methods.
• Prepare for Interviews: Having a list of accomplishments helps you respond effectively to behavioral interview questions about your achievements.

3. Define Your Job Preferences:

• Identify Your Values: Determine what you want in your next job, considering factors like company size, role, career change possibility, and location.
• Align with Your Values: Ensure that each job prospect aligns with your values to find fulfillment in your next role.

4. Create a Job-Hunting Schedule:

• Plan Your Activities: Develop a daily or weekly schedule for networking, job searching, resume drafting, and interview preparation.
• Set Goals: Establish specific goals for each day to maintain focus and a sense of accomplishment during your job search.

5. Explore Interesting Jobs Before Applying:

• Keyword Research: Scan job boards and use Boolean searches to identify interesting positions.
• Highlight Keywords: Focus on keywords in job descriptions and recognize common themes across various job opportunities.

What to Do on the Day of the Layoff:

A. Review Documents:

• Pause and Reflect: Take a moment to absorb the news without immediate reactions.
• Review Separation Documents: Understand the details of severance, benefits, and other terms outlined in the separation documents provided by the company.

B. Seek Legal Advice (If Needed):

• Consult Union Representatives: If part of a union, consult representatives regarding collective bargaining agreements and potential rehiring.
• Legal Consultation: Seek legal advice, especially if you suspect discrimination or if your age group has been disproportionately affected.

C. Apply for Unemployment:

• Initiate the Process: Immediately begin the application process for unemployment benefits, adhering to your state’s guidelines.
• Understand Eligibility: Know the eligibility criteria and potential impact of severance pay on unemployment benefits.

What to Do in the Week After Layoff:

A. Evaluate Severance Package:

• Assess Offer vs. Needs: Evaluate the severance package in terms of lump sum vs. salary continuation, health insurance continuation, and additional assistance.
• Negotiate Terms: If applicable, negotiate terms based on your specific needs and priorities.

B. Update Professional Presence:

• Resume and LinkedIn: Update your resume, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio.
• Network Communication: Reach out to professional contacts, mentors, and former colleagues, sharing your updated status and job preferences.

C. Prepare for Job Search:

• Structure Your Day: Establish a structured routine for job searching, application submissions, and networking.
• Self-Care: Allocate time for self-care and activities to maintain a healthy work-life balance during the job search.

D. Legal Considerations:

• Reference Check: Inquire about what information the company will provide in future reference checks. Clarify the reason for the layoff with your former manager.

Ongoing Job Search Strategies:

A. Strategic Application:

• Quality Over Quantity: Focus on quality job applications rather than sheer quantity. Tailor resumes and cover letters for each application.
• Network Continuously: Regularly engage in networking activities, both online and offline, to tap into unadvertised job opportunities.

B. Continuous Improvement:

• Resume Feedback: Seek feedback on your resume and cover letter from mentors or friends with hiring experience.
• Stay Updated: Stay informed about current job search trends, especially in the era of social media.

C. Self-Reflection:

• Define Career Goals: Continuously reflect on your career goals and adjust your job search strategy accordingly.
• Adapt to Feedback: Be open to feedback and adapt your approach based on the responses and interactions during your job search.

Remember, a layoff is a business decision and doesn’t diminish your value. Take control of the situation, leverage available resources, and approach your job search with resilience and determination.