The recent large-scale layoffs across various industries are not news anymore; it has not just happened to those U.S. gov. agencies but also happened to some manufacturing sectors in Taiwan. Some of my clients are considering cost-cutting to adapt to changes quickly.
Back to my friend’s situation: He didn’t even get a chance to learn the actual reason behind the layoff, but he told me, “Acting emotionally does nothing to solve this situation, and even if the layoff feels unfair, you never know who is going to work with you again in the future. The world is big, but industry is quite small.”
This situation reminds me of how I experienced and processed my last layoff notice, especially if the company refused to give clear information. I wanna share some steps that will help protect your rights, secure your financial situation, and prepare for your next career move.
?? Seek HR to clarify the company’s Layoff Policies & compensation
- Request an Official Layoff Letter: If you haven’t received one, ask HR for a written confirmation stating your layoff terms, including severance pay, last working date, and benefits coverage.
- Check Company Layoff Policies: Review your employment contract, company handbook, or any layoff-related documents to understand your rights.
- Understand Local Labor Laws or seek legal advice (if necessary): Research labour regulations in your country or state to determine if you are entitled to severance, unemployment benefits, or wrongful termination claims.
- Check Eligibility for Unemployment Compensation: Many regions require immediate application after job loss to qualify for benefits.
?? Secure Your Final Pay and Benefits
- Confirm Final Pay Details: Verify how and when you will receive your final paycheck, including unused vacation days or bonuses.
- Clarify Health & Retirement Benefits: Check if your health insurance coverage continues for a grace period or if you need to enroll in alternative coverage.
- Request Written Confirmation of Benefits: Obtain documents outlining your health insurance coverage, COBRA options (if applicable), and pension/retirement fund details.
- Understand Non-Compete Agreements (if applicable): If your contract has a non-compete clause, determine how it may affect your ability to work in a similar industry.
?????? Keep positive and Strengthen Your Personal Brand
Honestly, we should keep crafting our personal brand on professional social platforms like LinkedIn. We always say that networking is important,t but connections don’t come naturally. Few golden rules, as others already shared:
- Revamp Your Resume & LinkedIn Profile: Highlight your skills, achievements, and past contributions in a results-driven manner. Refer to
Jeff Su
posts to get everything you need to know to sharpen your LinkedIn profiles
- Request Recommendations: Reach out to former colleagues, managers, or clients for testimonials that strengthen your credibility.
- Create a Portfolio (if applicable): Showcase your work, case studies, or successful projects in a portfolio or personal website.
- Develop an Elevator Pitch: Clearly articulate your value and expertise when networking or in interviews.
- Upskill and Stay Competitive Enroll in Online Courses: Gain new certifications in high-demand skills (e.g., AI, digital marketing, coding, or project management). Explore Temporary or Freelance Work: Consider contract work, freelancing, or consulting while searching for full-time roles. Work on Personal Projects: Use this time to develop new skills, contribute to open-source projects, or engage in passion-driven work.
