From Layoffs to Resilience: Practical Steps to Help Others and Thrive Amidst Uncertainty

Experiencing layoffs can be a challenging and emotionally draining time for everyone in the workforce. Here's a list of practical steps to support your network during layoffs and strategies to cope with survivor's guilt. By following these tips, you can contribute to creating a more empathetic and resilient professional community.

Recognize the bigger picture.

• Understand that layoffs are a common business practice across companies of all sizes.
• Avoid attributing blame or viewing affected individuals as inferior; layoffs can happen to anyone.
• Layoff decisions are not personal. Often direct managers and teams do not get a say in who is laid off.

Offer tangible support, skip the clichés.

• Go beyond generic well-wishes and take concrete actions to assist friends and colleagues who have been laid off.
• Write a thoughtful LinkedIn recommendation to showcase their skills and expertise.
• Share their posts or resumes on social media platforms to increase their visibility.
• Keep an ear out for relevant job openings and connect them with potential opportunities.

Respect boundaries, avoid intrusive questions.

• Refrain from immediately asking what led to their layoff, as it may be a sensitive topic.
• Instead, express your willingness to help by offering assistance in their job search.
• Inform them if you come across any suitable positions within your professional network.

Recognize your own privilege and change your perspective.

• If you have not been affected by layoffs directly, acknowledge the privilege of being employed.
• Resist the temptation to become disheartened or unproductive at work.
• Remember that many others would be grateful for the stability and opportunities your job provides.

Always be prepared.

• Understand that layoffs are a reality and may occur again in the future.
• While there is no need to panic, take proactive steps to safeguard your own career.
• Maintain an emergency savings fund equivalent to three to six months of expenses.
• Regularly update your LinkedIn profile and resume to stay connected and market-ready.

Layoffs can be distressing, by following these tips, you can effectively support individuals within your professional network. Remember to offer tangible assistance, avoid prying for details, acknowledge your own privilege, and prepare for the future. By fostering a culture of support and resilience, we can help those affected by layoffs navigate their journey towards new and fulfilling opportunities.

About the Author:

Meredith Unger is an experienced marketer with over 5 years of agency and corporate experience, specializing in strategic creative development in the tech, retail and tourism industries. Despite facing three layoffs throughout her career, Meredith's resilience and adaptability have been instrumental in her success. Her deep understanding of consumer behavior and market trends enables her to create impactful marketing strategies that resonate with target audiences. With a passion for continuous learning and staying ahead of industry developments, Meredith is currently working with some of the world's top brands at Tinuiti.