What To Do After You're Laid Off

By Angela Tai

Being laid off is tough, and even tougher now with the compounding scale of layoffs we're experiencing due to the COVID global pandemic. It means that you're competing with an overwhelming number of other qualified job seekers for the same positions.

What’s the good news? Similar to the 2008 recession, employers are people too and (most likely) concerned about their own livelihood being jeopardized so they'll be more empathetic to your situation. Secondly, hiring managers know it's not your "fault" that you've been laid off. Throwing in the cliché "we're all in this together" but it's true. This means that you don't have to worry too much about crafting a narrative of why you've been let go. 

Steps to take after you've been laid off:

1) Review all of the documents you were given during your exit interview carefully. Some important items to pay attention to would be the severance package, COBRA, unemployment filing, and non-compete to list a few. Make sure you file any necessary paperwork in a timely manner so you don't miss the deadlines. Keep in mind government and healthcare organizations and banks are overwhelmed, so don't give up if you don't get a response on the first try. Be tenacious until you get your questions answered. 

2) Update your resume and LinkedIn profile. If you have a portfolio or Github account, take some time to get it to a place that you're happy with.

3) Get social. Even if you're not a fan of social media, maybe now is the time to push yourself out of your comfort zone and share your experience with people.

4) Job boards are helpful but your search strategy doesn't stop there. Explore companies you're interested in and connect with hiring managers via LinkedIn, even if they don't have jobs posted. Making introductions in a down economy can help you lay the foundation for when work picks up again. Hiring managers might have more time to respond to you now that they're not bombarded with numerous time-sensitive requests.

5) Network with your existing contacts. Most people are receptive to help, you just have to ask. However, make sure you've already done your homework before reaching out to your network so you don't waste their time. Have your resume (and any additional materials to showcase your skillset) ready to go. 

6) Taking online classes is a good way to redirect your focus on something productive. There are some free/affordable online resources like Coursera that could help ease some of your job search anxiety, if you find yourself feeling aimless. While this doesn't solve your unemployment problem, it can help sharpen your mind. 

7) Do pro bono work and give back to the community. When you reach out to offer your support, people will be more receptive to respond. Again, this is not an immediate solution to your crisis, but it could help market yourself and your brand, not to mention take your mind off your own stressful situation.

For additional resources, go to AD Talent Covid Resources.