Here's how you can navigate the emotional impact of a layoff in food and beverage operations.

Assuming you're laid off with plenty of experience "under your belt", the good news is the food and beverage industry is abundant in opportunities and pathways for you to "get back on track". Whether if the experience is six months or six years or more, the more time you have, the better. What's also good about it, is, any experience in F & B will help the resume stand out when applying for similar positions in that field. People are always seeking top notch servers. The best thing to do is practice being the best positive server. In case restaurant employees didn't know, people don't just rave about the food when they go to eat. They also talk about their servers. Be that rep/associate that people WANT to rave about.

To navigate the emotional impact of a layoff in food and beverage operations, acknowledge your feelings and give yourself time to process. Seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors. Stay active by maintaining a routine, exercising, and pursuing hobbies. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile, and network to explore new opportunities. Consider upskilling or taking courses to enhance your qualifications. Stay positive and focus on your strengths and future possibilities.

If you leave on good terms, you should be able to ask them to give you a good reference. Again, LAYOFFS is not something management enjoys doing. They HAVE to do it. So, it doesn't help anyone to be bitter toward them about it. Let them know you understand, have a positive attitude about it, and perhaps a manager, supervisor, or even a fellow coworker can be used as a professional reference. One thing about layoffs - I do understand it's difficult for employees not be angry with their management for the sudden end... However, management can show support and professionalism by going above and beyond and offering a reference letter, a severence, or a valid explanation with some guidance on what they can do next.

Food and beverage industry is a highly competitive business industry, which also includes hiring highly competitive employees. Therefore, in ANY employment, I do encourage your focus to remain strongly on building the KSAO's to perform the work, AS WELL as gaining the social skills/people skills you need to serve their needs better. It's not enough to serve the product, when in the food industry, the "DELIVERY" of the product/goods matter in face to face customer interactions. Therefore, the "delivery of service" depends on your "social skills/people skills". Gain both "keys" and you will succeed in the F & B field.