What to Do If You’ve Just Been Laid Off, or Expect to Be in the Near Future

Over the past few weeks, I’ve had multiple conversations with both employers and employees that have stuck with me. I've had multiple employers tell me they're holding off on hiring due to project funding concerns. At the same time, I've had employees mention that they're concerned that they may be laid off.

If you’re an employee in that position, you're not alone. This post is for you.

This is also a topic I feel personally connected to. For more than two decades, I worked without ever being laid off. I had survived all of them previously, but in the last two years that changed. Going through a layoff personally subjected me to the reality of what happens when your world shifts suddenly, and how to begin moving forward with clarity.

Below are some of the most important actions I recommend for anyone who has just been laid off or believes they might be in the near future.

1. Gather the facts: Before you take any next steps, make sure you clearly understand the details of your separation. That includes severance packages, final paychecks, PTO payout, benefits continuation like COBRA, and eligibility for unemployment. Ask for everything in writing if it's not already provided.

*Important note: Once you confirm you're eligible for unemployment, file immediately. Don't wait, as this is a process that can take time before you begin receiving benefits.

2. Give yourself a minute: Once you understand the logistics and file for benefits, take time for your physical and mental well-being. That could mean going for a walk, exercising, reconnecting with close friends, or simply spending time with people who lift you up. While it's wise to be budget conscious, investing in your mental and physical health will help you re-center and regain momentum.

3. Write down what you accomplished: Before memories fade, document your projects, contributions, and accomplishments both at your most recent job and in previous roles. This is not just for your resumé. It will prepare you with talking points for future interviews and networking conversations. I wrote about this process in more detail here: The Power of a Project List: Elevate Your Job Search and Interview Performance. This exercise helps you see your impact clearly and communicate it with confidence.

4. Talk to people you trust: Reach out to both personal and professional connections. This might include close friends who understand you, mentors who can provide guidance, or former colleagues with industry insight. Getting multiple perspectives some personal, some professional can help you process the situation and explore potential paths forward.

5. Formulate your goals and understand what you want: This is the moment to think about what you actually want from your next chapter. Start with your personal goals, then shape your professional ones around that. Doing this work now gives your job search focus and direction. I shared more on this approach here: Goal Setting 101: Building a Foundation for Your Career Search.

6. Get yourself organized: Now that you’ve got a sense of where you’re headed, it’s time to get everything in order. Make a list of target companies. Document your contacts, outreach notes, and open opportunities. Update your resumé and ensure your LinkedIn and other professional profiles are aligned. Clean up your email inbox and create folders for job search activities. A well-organized system saves you time and gives you clarity in the weeks ahead.

7. Reach out strategically: With your goals in mind, and after thoughtful conversations with people you trust, begin reaching out. Be intentional about who you contact and how you position yourself. Customize your outreach based on your goals and the value you bring. Track your activity so you can follow up appropriately and stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed.

Everyone’s timeline will look a little different. Your pace may depend on financial commitments, family obligations, or other personal factors. Whether you move through these steps in a week, a month, or over the course of a year, the most important thing is to move forward at a pace that works for you. Be mindful of your own needs, meet your immediate commitments, and give yourself the space to set up for long-term success. There’s no perfect timeline, only the one that keeps you grounded and moving forward.