Originally Published
October 30, 2025
Last Updated
October 31, 2025

What To Do Right After Getting Laid Off

Getting laid off can feel like your world just stopped. Here’s a calm, step-by-step guide to what to do next

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What To Do Right After Getting Laid Off (Without Losing Your Mind)

Layoffs are hard, but what you do in the days after matters most. Here’s how to process, regroup, and rebuild without panicking.

1. Take a Day (or Two) to Breathe

The first 24–48 hours are the hardest. You may feel shock, confusion, or embarrassment... and that’s normal.

Don’t jump into panic mode or flood job boards with applications. Instead, pause and process. Call someone you trust. Go for a walk. Let yourself absorb what happened.

You can handle this. You just need to get grounded first.

2. Review Your Severance Agreement Carefully

If you were offered a severance package, don’t rush to sign it. Read every section carefully, especially the non-compete, non-disparagement, and release of claims clauses.

  • ✅ Understand pay, benefits, and legal terms.
  • ✅ Ask questions before signing.
  • ✅ Consider having a lawyer review it.

You usually have at least a few days to review, so take that time to protect yourself.

3. File for Unemployment Immediately

Even if you received severance pay, you can often apply for unemployment benefits once that pay period ends. Each state’s rules differ, but filing early avoids delays.

Pro tip: Apply online since it’s usually faster. Have your layoff letter and last paystub ready.

4. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn (When You’re Ready)

You don’t need to post “Open to Work” on day one. But when you’re ready, update your resume and LinkedIn with confident, results-based language.

Focus on achievements, not just responsibilities. Examples:

  • “Drove X% growth in [metric].”
  • “Led process improvements across [department].”
  • “Managed $X in annual spend.”

If you’re struggling, review past performance reviews; they’re full of measurable examples you can use.

5. Reconnect With Your Network

This might feel uncomfortable, but it’s one of the most effective steps you can take. Start small and message a few trusted coworkers or mentors and let them know you’re exploring new roles.

“Hey, I was recently impacted by layoffs and am exploring new roles in [your field]. If you hear of anything, I’d really appreciate a heads-up.”

Quiet check-ins like these often lead to referrals, which are still the #1 way people get hired.

6. Audit Your Finances

Once things settle emotionally, look at your budget and emergency fund. Review:

  • Non-essential subscriptions to pause or cancel.
  • Hardship programs through credit cards or lenders.
  • Healthcare options if your coverage ends soon.

It’s not fun, but clarity brings calm. Knowing your financial runway helps you regain control.

7. Give Yourself Structure

Without a job, days can blur together. Create a light routine that keeps you steady and positive:

  • Morning walk or workout.
  • 1–2 hours of job searching or learning.
  • Personal time, such as books, hobbies, or volunteering.

Routine builds confidence and energy, which will show up when you start interviewing again.

8. Reflect Before Jumping Into the Next Job

One hidden gift of a layoff is perspective. Ask yourself:

  • What type of work energizes me most?
  • What kind of culture do I want next time?
  • Did this job align with the lifestyle I want?

These questions help you find something better, not just something next.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve just been laid off, please remember this: you are not alone, and you are not failing.

Layoffs happen to talented, capable people often because of business shifts, not performance. Give yourself permission to slow down, process, and rebuild on your own terms.

The next opportunity will come and when it does, you’ll be ready for it.