When you’re unexpectedly laid off from work, start with this list.
1. Ask About Your Last Pay and Other Benefits
Ask about your last paycheck before you leave. Try using a final pay calculator like OnPay to get an idea. Depending on the circumstances and the state, a company might give your last paycheck on the day you’re laid off.
If you’re part of a mass layoff, check the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act. This US labor law says you must receive a written notice 60 days before a mass layoff if you meet certain conditions. You can check the law online to know your rights as an employee.
Also, check your benefits, such as unused paid time off (PTO), vacation leaves, and sick days. You might not be entitled to pay for unused leaves, but read your state’s laws to be sure. Your company policy might also have provisions that pay you for any unused vacation or sick time.
2. Check and Return Work Equipment
One of the things you should do before returning your work PC is to check for personal files. If traces of your personal life are on your work computer, back them up and delete them. Make sure to return laptops, mobile phones, and other work tools in good condition.
If your projects or output are on your work computer, download them for your portfolio. You could use them as work samples when you start job searching. There’s no better time than now to learn design tips to make your portfolio look amazing.
3. Ask for a Good Reference
Your former employer can be your ticket to a new job. If you have a good relationship with your boss or any leader in the company, ask for a reference. A good reference will come in handy when applying to another company.
Keep copies of your performance reviews, and request them if you don’t have one. Good performance reviews can remind you of your abilities when you feel discouraged. If you received outstanding feedback, use that information to stand out in your next job interview.
4. Give Yourself Time
Getting laid off isn’t an easy experience to swallow. Some even experience anxiety and depression. When this happens, remember that you’re not alone and help is always available. It would help if you gave yourself time to grieve and process what happened.
Enjoy the downtime and consider this as an opportunity for an extended vacation. Connect with friends, and try picking up a new hobby. Eventbrite lets you search for events near you. You can join parties, cultural shows, concerts, and training online or in person.
Steer clear of social media if it only worsens your negative emotions. Other apps could help you in this difficult time. If you feel stressed, download mental health apps like Headspace, which enables you to practice mindfulness and meditation.
However, if you feel anxious or depressed for a long time, seek the help of a mental health practitioner. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist online. When you avail of their services, you can easily reach them through phone, video calls, text, or chat.
Download: Headspace for iOS | Android (Subscription required, free trial available)
5. Organize Your Finances
How many months can your savings, investments, and last pay sustain you? Take an inventory of your financial state, so you know how to plan for future expenses. You can use these free and customizable finance templates to set a budget and save money.
You should have set aside an emergency fund of at least three months. Hopefully, your job search won’t take much time. But if it does, try using apps that will help you find a side job instantly. You can still earn on the side while waiting for your big break.
6. Apply for Unemployment Benefits
Check if you qualify for unemployment benefits. These benefits provide temporary financial support while you search for a new job. Each state has an unemployment insurance program, so you must research your state’s guidelines to know if you qualify. Visit the US Department of Labor website to see the contact details of state unemployment insurance offices.
7. Compare Health Insurance Plans
If your job provides your health insurance, check if you can keep it. The federal government website Healthcare.gov mentions that you have two options: Enroll in a Marketplace plan or sign up for COBRA.
The Marketplace lets you choose from different private health insurance companies. If you want to enroll in a Marketplace plan, do it within 60 days of losing your job. You can enjoy coverage for the rest of the year if you qualify.
COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1986) is a federal law that lets you continue your job-based health coverage for a limited time. Talk to your former employer about this option. If available, you will have to pay the insurance premium with additional administrative fees.
You can also consider getting a short-term health insurance plan. Short-term insurance may not have complete health coverage, but it’s better than not having any. To compare insurance providers, use a site like eHealth.
8. Reach Out to Your Network
When you’re ready to start job hunting again, use the power of LinkedIn. LinkedIn connects you with millions of professionals, including recruiters, career coaches, and CEOs. A simple post with an authentic message can lead to unexpected connections and job offers.
LinkedIn also has different tools to help you get job leads:
Display a LinkedIn Open to Work badge on your profile picture. Send a message to a recruiter through LinkedIn messaging. Follow leaders in your industry and engage with their posts. Personalize the Open to Work portion in your profile, and add your job preferences.
9. Improve Job Skills
Losing your job doesn’t mean that you can’t be productive. Aside from taking copious amounts of rest, use your time to learn. Add learning activities to your schedule. Many online classes only take a few weeks, and some are free!
The options for learning in the online space are endless. If you decide to shift to another industry, you can take an online course for your new career path. If you want to stay in your current role but upgrade your skills, there’s an online course for that as well. Use Coursera, Udemy, edX, and other learning platforms to your advantage.
10. Update Your Resume and Start Job Hunting
When you’re ready, take time to review your resume and start your job search. If you’ve been working in your previous company for a long time, chances are, you haven’t taken the time to update your resume.
There are things you don’t need to include in your resume. Use a simple template, and choose words highlighting your skills in the bullet points.
A Lay-Off Can Lead to Your Best Job Ever
Getting laid off is not easy. “What am I going to do now?” is a common question. You can start with these tips as you begin a new chapter. Layoffs happen. And while unexpected, they’re not the end of your career.
You should also explore other career paths if you recently got laid off. Take the time to consider all your options before committing to another job. If you think about it, getting laid off might lead to an opportunity for your best job yet.
