How to overcome a layoff

From great businesses like AMAZON, MICROSOFT, and FACEBOOK to countless small startups around the globe: the expression "layoff" seemed to hunt many tech companies so far in 2023. And what appeared to be happening only in marketing teams and middle management roles now happens to analyst and engineer roles too.

Unfortunately, no job is 100% safe because most of the time, a layoff is not related to talent or performance. Even the most gifted and experienced people can find themselves out of a job due to a company's restructuring, budget cuts, or other reasons beyond their control. 

But we know that if you've been laid off, you may feel overwhelmed and stressed. Being forced to leave a job is a very challenging experience that can make you feel afraid of the unknown and insecure about the future. 

Although we can not tell you precisely what will happen in your future, we certainly can give you tips on going through this process with a good attitude. Here are some steps you can take to get back on track in your career. Take a look:

You have all the right to feel mad after a layoff

After that "meeting" where you hear the bad news, you are going to feel a bit dazed. You won't have much time to process your own feelings at that moment, but after a while, you may start experiencing lots of confusing things.

To start with, you may experience a sense of loss or betrayal. You may wonder why it happened to you. You may feel bad about your own performance as if you had made anything different, you would have changed things over. Besides the money, maybe your job was a source of pride, value, and identity, and being laid off made you question your value and purpose. That’s where it comes anger, fear, or sadness.

But let us stop you right there:

• A layoff is never personal.

• Your job doesn't measure your worth.

• You'll get through this. Don't be hard on yourself

You'll get through this

Losing a job can also lead to justifiable feelings, like financial uncertainty, especially if you were the primary breadwinner or had significant financial obligations, such as a mortgage. There’s also the fear of the unknown, cause you may start worrying about how long it will take to find a new job, what kind of job you will find, and whether you will be able to maintain the same standard of living.

It's essential to recognize that these fears are normal and understandable. However, it's also necessary to address them, such as seeking support from family and friends, practicing self-care, and staying proactive in the job search. 

Stay positive and keep busy

As we said multiple times, being laid off can be emotionally draining, but staying motivated is important. It makes sense to be sad, but uncertainty becomes a vast resource if we shift our focus. It can lead you to opportunities you may never imagine. Take some time to reflect on what happened and why. This can help you identify any areas where you can improve in the future. Keep busy by networking, applying to jobs, and improving your skills. This will help you maintain a positive outlook and increase your chances of finding a new opportunity.

Check Your Benefits

Try and get to know your rights regarding receiving a payout for unused vacation days, which depend on the state and country. For instance, each state in the US has its own set of qualifications to determine whether an individual can claim benefits, for how much, and for how long. In Brazil, if you were hired by the CLT regime, you may qualify for unemployment insurance. Of course, this blog post is just informative, and you should check with a lawyer or accountant to get legal and administrative advice. And before you sign anything, it can be a good idea to run any agreement by an employment lawyer.

Check Your Insurance

In the US and in Brazil, health insurance is frequently linked to employment. While it is legally required for your employer to cover your premiums until the end of your employment, this time frame can pass swiftly, especially if your termination falls near the end of the month.

Reach out to your network

Especially if you are experiencing negative feelings, reach out to a friend, a family member, or a therapist to work through it. And if someone you know was recently laid off, give them a hug or take them out for a coffee. Transitions are difficult, but having a support system makes anything possible.

Also, remember that professional networking can be a valuable resource during this time. Reach out to former colleagues, classmates, mentors, and other contacts to let them know you're on the job market. 

Don’t be shy about asking your friends and colleagues who they can connect you with and taking informational interviews. Send a DM to leaders in your field on Twitter and tell them about your situation. You never know who can connect you with a new opportunity.

Update your resume and online profiles

First, ensure your resume is up-to-date and tailored to the jobs you're applying for. Also, update your LinkedIn profile and any other online profiles you have. This will help you stand out to recruiters and hiring managers. If you’re part of a talent network like Olby, it’s a good call to update your profile in there as well.

Polish your skills

 As you continue your job search, think about ways you could refine your skills or even pick up new ones. Consider taking online courses or attending workshops to learn new skills or update your existing ones. This will make you more competitive in the job market. Also, be open to learning new skills and looking at other cities when finding your next job. 

Sign up for talent networks

Talent networks can help you reposition yourself in the market. For instance, here at Olby, we strive to find you meaningful work that allows you to make a positive impact in your field. When you receive an opportunity, you'll be able to review it. After evaluating, you should reply saying if you want to move forward or not.

Being laid off can be a difficult and emotional experience, but it's important to remember that it's not a reflection of your worth or abilities. Take some time to process your feelings, seek support, and stay proactive in your job search. Remember to check your benefits, reach out to your network, update your resume and online profiles, and consider refining your skills. With the right mindset and approach, you can turn this challenging experience into an opportunity for growth and new possibilities.