What to Do After Getting Laid off: 4 Crucial Steps

You have been laid off recently. What to do now? Receiving a layoff notice is heartbreaking, but you have to bounce back as soon as possible. Upon learning that you have lost your employment, there are several essential actions to do. 

First and foremost, do not panic. The global economy is plummeting due to the COVID-19 pandemic that layoffs and closures are massive. No job is immune from the hit and, with the prolonged crisis, the chance of losing a job is prevalent. Know that you are not alone getting the pink slip and this is not the end of the world. Panicking will not help you in any way, so here are four crucial steps to take right away when you’re getting laid off. 

Request a Layoff Letter and Job Reference

Assuming you were not laid off for cause, but rather for conditions beyond your control, you will be entitled for a laid off letter. These circumstances can include downsizing, economic setbacks, mergers, liquidations, relocations, and so on. If you do not receive an official layoff letter, request one. A layoff letter will outline the facts about your situation to potential employers, so you will not be subjected to any prejudice. 

Aside from a layoff letter, asking for a job reference from your HR manager or supervisor will be helpful when you’re embarking on a new job search. After obtaining these two letters, read them carefully and double-check every information provided. If the letter overlooks a significant contribution made by you or your team, do not hesitate to request a correction. Make sure your achievements are highlighted, as this will be beneficial for your next job seeking journey.

Read Also: How to Restore Your Confidence after a Layoff

Check your eligibility for benefits and severance pay

When you are laid off, you may be entitled for certain benefits you have had during employment. Some of the advantages you had while working, such as health insurance, may continue at least for a limited time. Severance pay is also paid by employers when their employees are terminated. The pay is generally based on the duration of service for which an employee is eligible at the time of termination. In some cases, employees are required to sign documents asking them not to talk adversely about the company in order to get the severance payment. They may also be required to pledge not to seek legal action or associate with a competitor. 

Severance policy is not mandatory and applicable in all countries, so you may need to confirm this to your HR manager first. If you think you have signed a document covering severance pay, address this along with your layoff. This is your right and you are entitled to claiming it, because receiving extra cash will support you financially after a layoff.

Check and collect your final salary

Based on the circumstances, you can receive your final paycheck on the same day you are laid off. If not, make sure when you will get your final paycheck and how it will be delivered to you before packing your stuff. Employers are obligated to pay it promptly in some countries, while others may see a delay. Check that the pay is for the proper amount and that all of the adjustments are correct. Consult the employee handbook to see how the company handles unclaimed vacation/sick days or PTO (paid time off). You should have received your final check by the normal pay date for the last pay cycle that you worked for the company. However, if you are part of a mass layoff, such as due to business shutdown, unfortunately you may not get your final salary for several months.

Update your resume and profile

If you are not the type of person who checks and updates your CV on a regular basis, now is the opportunity. Update your LinkedIn profile, give a new description, and go through your strengths and talents. Revamp details of previous employment and achievements; emphasize your experience and abilities with an eye toward the future. If your dream job requires it, you can create a portfolio. A portfolio can help you grab the attention of future employers by displaying how you have grown professionally. Your portfolio should include both current and "most proud of '' accomplishments. Read Talentvis’ specific article on the latest resume trends to show that you are ready to get back in the game.

As difficult as it may be, you need to quickly get over your layoff and move on. Focusing on your talents and experience, rather than your dismissal, can help you sell yourself to the employer and land the job. Still clueless about where to start? Talentvis has a myriad of job vacancies you can apply for according to your domicile and field of expertise. You can also read some articles to equip yourself better with useful tips about job seeking. Simply sign up and you can start searching for opportunities that may even be better than your recent job. All in all, good luck for your future endeavors!

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