Getting laid off is difficult. There are immediate impacts on your paycheck and benefits, challenges in beginning an unexpected job search, and processing a flood of emotions.
Considering the unpredictability of the job market, it’s valid to be prepared for potential layoffs. Have a plan of how you would approach being laid off and be aware of what feelings may arise in that situation.
Everyone’s experience is different, but these are common outcomes for employees who experience layoffs.
- Skills deterioration: Extended unemployment has significant negative impacts with 41% of U.S. and 42% of Canadian job seekers reporting deterioration of hard or soft skills, according to a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey.
- Emotional and mental strain: Grief, anxiety, and depression are common following a layoff. Embracing boundaries with your job search, acknowledging that the layoff was a business decision and not personal, and seeking professional support may ease the strain.
- Lack of trust: It takes time to recover from a layoff, and there may be lingering reminders of the experience. This can be unpleasant, distracting, and a hindrance to relationships with new coworkers and supervisors when you start a new role. A bad experience doesn’t have to determine the trajectory of the experiences ahead, so invest in building trust with your team.
- Overthinking: It may be tempting to examine every conversation, meeting, or email for signs that layoffs are pending. It can be challenging to do your best work if you fear saying or doing the wrong thing and setting yourself up for failure. There’s always a learning curve when settling into a job. Have patience for the process and take communication at face value until you have enough information to make a judgment.
Preparation Is Key
Layoffs are unpredictable and the best approach is to have a plan in case you’re affected. A digital go-bag can store the essential documents and contacts you’ll need during an unexpected job search. Being educated on what happens to your health insurance, retirement plan, and other company-sponsored benefits may make the next steps after a layoff smoother. Taking control of your finances by budgeting can help navigate a difficult time.
Job Search Support
The job market is tough, but working with a staffing expert can make the search easier. If you experience a job loss, contact your local Express Employment Professionals, Express Healthcare Staffing, or Specialized Recruiting Group office to learn how we can assist with your job search.
The Job Insights survey was conducted online within the United States and Canada by The Harris Poll on behalf of Express among hiring decision-makers in the U.S. (n=1,001) and Canada (n=505) Nov. 11–26, 2024. A separate survey was conducted among job seekers in the U.S. (n=1,039) and Canada (n=505) (defined as adults ages 18 and older who are employed but looking for a new job, or not employed and looking for work), Nov. 21–Dec. 10, 2024. For complete survey methodology, please contact Communications@ExpressPros.com.
