Navigating Layoffs - Signs to Watch For and How to Prepare

Hello LinkedIn? Community,

This week, I want to address a topic that many of us have faced or may face in our careers: the dreaded layoff. Recently, I participated in a poll shared by Lisa Dean , which asked " Would you rather be laid off in a 1:1 meeting or on a group Zoom?". Having experienced both, I felt compelled to share my story and offer some tips on how to prepare for potential layoffs.

My Story: Your first layoff is always the toughest.

I've experienced both Zoom and 1:1 layoff notices, and they are equally awkward, more so for the manager delivering the message. Even with NDAs signed, these are often the worst-kept secrets. Here are some signs I noticed leading up to each of my layoff:

• Training Others: When you start training people on tasks you're accountable for.
• Uncomfortable Questions: When your direct reports tell you they're being asked questions about where you keep project files.
• Exclusion from Projects: When project intakes stop including you.
• Stakeholder Confusion: When internal stakeholders ask why they were told not to go to you anymore, and you're hearing this for the first time.
• Empty Calendar: When your calendar starts to free up, and your manager says it's just because things are slow.
• After-Hours Meetings: The cherry on top is the after-hours calendar invite with HR included.

Despite these signs, I put on my big boy pants and took it like a professional. It's important to remember that it's not personal; Why do I know this? because each year-end review had me rated as exceptional or exceeding expectations.

Tips for Preparing for Layoffs:

Remember, being prepared can make a significant difference in how you navigate this challenging time. Your first layoff might be tough, but with the right mindset and preparation, you'll come out stronger.

1. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on company performance and industry trends. If your company is struggling, layoffs might be on the horizon.
2. Have A Personal Brand Strategy: Be proactive by regularly engaging on LinkedIn? to ensure your personal brand is front of mind for your community members. Waiting till your laid off is reactive and your tone will come across as such.
3. Update Your Resume: Regularly update your resume with recent achievements and skills.
4. Network Actively: Build and maintain professional relationships both inside and outside your company.
5. Save Financially: Have an emergency fund that can cover at least three to six months of living expenses.
6. Learn Continuously: Keep enhancing your skills through courses, certifications, and workshops.
7. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to mentors, career coaches, or support groups.

Stay strong and stay connected.

If you have questions or want support after a layoff, book a 1:1 and we'll put a plan together to raise personal brand awareness and advocacy. Remember, at this stage in what has become a very complex market, you'll need to optimize your personal brand and leverage your strongest digital marketing asset, LinkedIn?

Want to talk? https://calendly.com/journeylogic/30min Book a 30min 1:1