What to Do if You’ve Been Laid Off (Step-by-Step Guide)

What to Do if You’ve Been Laid Off (Step-by-Step Guide)

You’ve just been laid off. Maybe it was a surprise. Maybe you saw it coming.

Either way, it’s a punch to the gut.
You’re wondering what to do next — and how to move forward fast.

The truth?
You’re not alone. Layoffs are happening across industries. And while it’s never easy, it can be a launchpad — if you handle it right.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to regain control, protect your finances, and get back on track.

1. Don’t Panic — Pause and Process First

Before you jump into action mode, give yourself a moment.

Layoffs trigger real grief — even if you didn’t love the job. It’s okay to feel shocked, sad, or even angry.

What to do:

• Take a walk. Breathe. Journal.

• Talk to someone — a friend, coach, mentor.

• Remind yourself: this is about the job, not your worth.

Once your head clears, you’ll make smarter decisions.

2. Review Your Exit Package (or Negotiate One)

If you received a severance package, don’t sign it blindly.

Check for:

• Final salary and unused leave payout

• Non-compete clauses or NDA terms

• Healthcare coverage or extensions

• Outplacement or career support services

Pro tip: If something’s unclear — ask. If you feel you were treated unfairly — speak to HR, or seek legal advice.

3. Update Key Documents

Even before you apply to your next role, get your job-seeking essentials in order.

Start with:

• Your resume (highlight wins, not just tasks)

• Your LinkedIn profile (clear headline, results, open-to-work status)

• A brag document (list of projects, KPIs, wins, testimonials)

This will boost your confidence — and help you stand out when you re-enter the market.

4. Apply for Financial Relief or Benefits (If Eligible)

Depending on your country, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits, job search support, or government subsidies.

Don’t leave free support on the table.

Examples:

• Singapore: Contact WSG or MOM for job schemes or training support

• UAE: Check your job loss insurance (mandatory as of 2023)

• France: Apply for Pôle Emploi support

• USA: File for unemployment insurance ASAP

5. Reconnect — Quietly or Publicly

You don’t have to blast your layoff on LinkedIn (unless you want to), but do let people know you’re open.

How:

• Reach out privately to ex-managers, colleagues, mentors

• Join industry Slack groups, communities, or events

• If comfortable, post an update sharing what you’re looking for

Often, your next opportunity comes through your network — not a job portal.

6. Be Strategic With Applications

After a layoff, it's tempting to apply to everything.

But here's what works better:

• Shortlist companies you’re genuinely excited about

• Tailor your resume and profile to each role

• Focus on quality over quantity (especially in competitive markets)

7. Work With Recruiters Who Know Your Market

Generalist recruiters might not help much. But specialist recruiters?

They can:

• Share insider job leads

• Help position your profile

• Speed up your job search

Final Thoughts

Being laid off is hard. But it's also a reset — and possibly the nudge you needed to aim higher.

Here’s the recap:

• Breathe and regroup

• Handle your exit properly

• Update your profile and docs

• Tap into your network

• Be intentional with your search

You're not starting from zero — you're starting from experience.

Need a hand getting back in the game?

HelloRecruiters connects you with 5–10 recruiters who:

• Specialize in your industry

• Understand your location

• Have relevant roles

No cold outreach. No guessing. Just the right intros to get you moving again.

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