8 Things to Do After a Layoff

If you haven’t been laid off yet, check out: 5 Things To Do Before a Layoff so you can get ahead of the game. 

So you’ve just been laid off… now what?

You’re probably feeling a mix of emotions—shock, sadness, maybe even relief. Layoffs can feel like a monumental setback, but they can also be the perfect reset button. The key is knowing how to navigate the next steps effectively so you come out stronger, more confident, and ready to move forward.

Should you take a day to process and recover? Should you jump into job applications? Or should you map out a game plan first?

In today’s post, I’m going to walk you through the 8 most important steps to take after a layoff to turn what feels like a roadblock into a springboard for your next opportunity. 

Let's get started.

Step #1: Give Yourself Space

First things first: Pause. You just went through something major, and pretending it’s no big deal—or panicking—won’t help.

The best way to do this is:

• Journal about your experience and emotions.

• Talk to someone you trust.

• Ground yourself with activities like yoga, a walk in nature, or even a night of binge-watching your favorite comfort show (hello, Shameless).

Many people dive straight into job searching—but that’s a mistake. 

Why?

Because it often leads to burnout, rushed decisions, and missed opportunities for clarity!

Instead, give yourself the space to grieve, reflect, and regroup. A brief pause—just 3–7 days if you can swing it—can help you regain confidence, refresh your energy, and realign your focus. It’s during this pause that you can reflect on what truly matters in your next role. Is it better work-life balance? Aligning with your passions? Long-term career growth? Taking this time ensures you’re pursuing opportunities that genuinely fit your values, strengths, and goals—rather than defaulting to the first thing that comes your way.

For me, that reflection time was a game-changer. When I was laid off in March 2024, I decided to take the summer off to spend time with my kids. That choice, made with intention, brought alignment and peace in what could have been a chaotic time.

Pause, breathe, and trust that taking a moment to reset is the best first step forward.

Step #2: Carefully Review Your HR Package

Average corporate professionals skim their severance package and don’t follow up with resources that may have been included in the documents. Smart women? They dig into the details, ask the right questions, and use this information to create a financial plan that sets them up for success.

Here’s the thing: understanding your HR package isn’t just paperwork. It’s the foundation for your next steps. When you approach it thoughtfully, you’ll gain clarity, avoid unnecessary stress, and even uncover benefits or opportunities you might have missed.

Here are some ways to approach it:

• Read the fine print of your severance package. Look for details like payout terms (like deadlines to return signed documents), unused vacation pay, and any non-compete clauses. If something seems unclear, don’t hesitate to ask HR for clarification or consult an attorney for peace of mind.

• Understand your COBRA benefits. Review your health insurance options and decide if continuing your current coverage or exploring alternatives (like Healthcare Marketplace plans) is the best fit for your budget and needs.

• Don’t overlook career transition or support resources. Many companies offer outplacement services, which can include resume writing assistance, career coaching, or access to exclusive job boards. Some also provide Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that offer counseling and emotional support to help you navigate this challenging time.

For example: When I was laid off in March 2024, I realized my severance package included career coaching services as well as EAP support—but only after I read through the details carefully. That perk gave me access to valuable resources I wouldn’t have otherwise considered.

Check your severance letter for outplacement and employee assistance support benefits[/caption]

If you feel overwhelmed by all the paperwork or don’t know where to start, break it down into smaller, manageable steps. The key is to tackle one document or section at a time rather than trying to process everything all at once. This way, you’ll feel more in control and confident in your decisions without getting stuck in analysis paralysis.

Step #3: Apply for Unemployment and Plan Your Finances

Getting your finances in order is one of the most crucial steps to take after experiencing a layoff. 

Taking the time to apply for unemployment benefits and organize your financial situation can provide immediate relief and a clearer path forward.  Knowing where you stand financially helps you make informed decisions about your next steps—whether it’s budgeting for essentials, exploring new opportunities, or taking time to upskill. 

So, how do you apply for unemployment and plan your finances?

Here’s a simple roadmap:

• Apply for Unemployment Benefits. Visit your state’s unemployment office website and file your claim as soon as possible. Make sure you have the necessary documents handy, like your previous employer’s details, your last pay stub, and your Social Security number. These benefits can act as a financial safety net while you navigate this transition.

• Audit Your Expenses. Review your current spending habits and identify areas where you can cut back. Prioritize essentials like rent, utilities, and groceries. Pause or cancel non-essential subscriptions for now.

• Explore Your Financial Options. Research short-term health insurance alternatives if COBRA feels too expensive. Check if you’re eligible for any state or local assistance programs to further ease the burden.

For example: When I was laid off, I made a spreadsheet to track my severance, savings, and unemployment benefits. This gave me a clear picture of how long my funds would last and helped me prioritize spending. That clarity was a game-changer in reducing my stress during the transition.

Want a deeper dive into financial planning after a layoff? Check out Dave Ramsey’s guide on "How to Budget After a Job Loss".

Step #4: Get Clear on Your Career Goals

If you want to land a role that excites and fulfills you, you need to define what you truly want in your next career move. But you also need to be intentional about how you approach this process so you don’t fall into the trap of chasing shiny job titles or settling for the first offer that comes along. Specifically, you’ll want to take the time to reflect on what truly matters to you and create a clear roadmap for the type of role, company, and work-life balance you’re aiming for.

Here’s how to do it the right way:

• Clarify Your Priorities. Ask yourself: What’s non-negotiable for me? Is it remote work, opportunities for growth, better pay, or a healthier work environment? List these out to create a crystal-clear picture of what you’re looking for in your next role.

• Evaluate Your Strengths. What makes you stand out? Reflect on your unique skills, accomplishments, and experiences. Think about how you can leverage these in a way that adds value to your next role while helping you thrive professionally.

• Define Your Ideal Work Environment. Think beyond the job description. Consider company culture, leadership styles, and team dynamics that align with your personal and professional values. Ask yourself what kind of workplace will make you feel energized and supported.

To find examples of great work environments, search for “Best Places to Work for Women or Parents” or “Remote-First Companies with Flexible Work Schedules”, for example.  Focus on organizations that offer work-life balance, professional development opportunities, and inclusive cultures.

Bonus Tip: Check out Marisa Volpe Lonic’s post on "How to Start Loving Mondays" where she breaks down how to identify and align with your values so you can rediscover joy and purpose in your work. Her insights and exercises are perfect for getting laser-focused on your next move.

Step 5: Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Speaking of getting clear on your career goals, let’s talk about bringing those goals to life by updating your resume and LinkedIn profile.

Refreshing your resume and optimizing your LinkedIn profile makes it easier to align your professional story with your career vision, helps you stand out to recruiters, and makes you more searchable for the right opportunities.

So set aside 60 minutes to focus on these updates:

• Tailor Your Resume for Your Ideal Role. Go beyond listing job duties. Instead, highlight your achievements with measurable results. Use bullet points like, “Increased client satisfaction by 25% through improved project management processes.” Targeting a different career path? Then read 5 Simple Steps to Stand Out and Land Your Dream Role Faster When Switching Careers
  

• Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile for Visibility. Update your headline to showcase your expertise and what you’re looking for (e.g., “Experienced Marketing Manager | Specializing in Digital Strategy & Campaign Optimization”). Use the "About" section to tell a compelling story about your career, emphasizing your values and key accomplishments.

• Add Recent Accomplishments. If you’ve completed certifications, led a major project, or developed a key skill, make sure it’s reflected on both platforms. This demonstrates growth and keeps your profile current.

Want to revamp your resume and LinkedIn profile in 15 minutes or less?

Check out my free resource “Land That Job With Targeted Storytelling”

See how many keywords and results-driven metrics you can integrate into your resume and profile—you’ll be amazed at how much stronger your professional brand becomes!

 Step #6: Activate Your Network

Another great way to land your next role faster is by activating your network. Your connections are a powerful resource for uncovering opportunities that might not even be posted online.

Just start by reaching out to your inner circle—former colleagues, mentors, and even friends who might have insights into your industry. Share what you’re looking for and ask if they can keep an eye out for opportunities or make introductions. Then, expand to your extended network. Join professional groups on LinkedIn or attend industry-specific events (both virtual and in-person). This is a great way to meet new people who might have leads or advice.

Pro Tip: The key with this step is to be clear and concise about what you’re looking for. Don’t just send vague messages like, “I’m looking for a job—know anything?” Instead, share specifics:

• Mention the roles or industries you’re targeting.

• Highlight your key skills or accomplishments.

• Keep it professional but warm to strengthen your relationships.

For example:
“Hi [Name], I hope you’re doing well! I wanted to let you know I’m currently exploring opportunities in marketing analytics, specifically in industries like e-commerce or tech. If you know of any openings or could connect me with someone in this space, I’d be so grateful. Thanks so much!”

Don't forget to follow up! Relationships aren’t one-and-done. A quick thank-you message or a note about how their advice helped goes a long way in keeping the connection strong.

Step #7: Create a Job Search Routine

Don’t forget, there’s more than one way to approach your job search effectively. Switching up your routine is a smart (and practical!) way to stay motivated, avoid burnout, and ensure you’re covering all your bases.

For example, you could set aside two hours each morning to research job postings and submit tailored applications. This focused time ensures you’re applying to roles that genuinely align with your career goals.

But that’s just one idea! You can also:

• Network on LinkedIn in the afternoon. Spend 30 minutes sending connection requests, engaging with posts in your field, or reaching out to former colleagues. Networking is one of the most effective ways to uncover hidden opportunities.

• Block time for skill-building. Dedicate an hour a few times a week to enhance your skills through online courses or certifications. This keeps your resume fresh and demonstrates your commitment to growth.

• Set follow-up reminders. Keep track of where you’ve applied and schedule time to follow up on applications or networking conversations. Following up shows initiative and keeps you top of mind for hiring managers.

You have many options, so mix them up to keep your routine both productive and engaging. By diversifying your approach, you’ll avoid the monotony of job searching and ensure you’re giving yourself the best chance to land a role that truly fits.

Step #8: Polish Your Skills

This activity is one of the most overlooked, but also one of the most important (which is why I saved it for last). If you don’t work on strengthening and updating your skills, how will you stay competitive in today’s job market?

Evaluate the skills most in demand for the roles you’re targeting, and compare it to your actual skills. Did you get the results you expected? How well do your skills align with the qualifications outlined in job descriptions?

Dedicate time to learning or refining key skills through online courses, certifications, or self-directed projects.  For example, if you upgraded your technical skills but didn’t complete the certification, you may need to revisit your learning plan.

Here’s what I recommend if you need to adjust:

• Commit to a Learning Plan: Use platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or industry-specific resources to upskill efficiently.

• Practice and Apply: Don’t just learn—apply your skills through hands-on projects, freelance gigs, or volunteering opportunities.

• Showcase Your Growth: Add newly acquired skills or certifications to your resume and LinkedIn to demonstrate your dedication to staying relevant.

Make sure you check in on your progress regularly and adjust your plan as needed. A small investment in your professional growth now can pay off big time when the right opportunity comes along.

Wrapping Up

If you think your work is over as soon as you’ve been laid off, I’ve got surprising news for you. What you do after the layoff is even more important than how you react in the moment. Taking your foot off the gas can turn all that potential for a fresh start into a missed opportunity.

So instead of rushing into job applications or panicking, spend some time reflecting on your goals, strengthening your skills, and building a strategic plan for your next move. Try the other steps outlined above, and keep them in mind for this and future career transitions.

Most importantly, don’t breeze through this critical phase. Take the time to clarify your vision, leverage your network, and create a solid foundation for the future. Before you know it, you’ll not only land your next role—you’ll set yourself up for long-term success and fulfillment in your career.

Need help mapping your next move?

Let’s chat!