What to Do When You Aren't Laid Off

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Being laid off is terrible. Having been laid off a few times myself, I know well the shock and anxiety of the experience. This post isn't about the people who are laid off, though. It's about those left to carry on. What follows is my advice to survivors of layoffs.

First, take time to process what's happened. This is often said to people being laid off, but it's not much use to them, as generally they have no time to waste in this job market to look for another job. For someone who has made it through a layoff there can be a variety of feelings. Acknowledge your emotions, whether it's relief, guilt, anxiety, or sadness. It's normal to feel a mix of things.

Second, support your former colleagues. Reach out to those who were laid off, particularly via LinkedIn. Offer emotional support, job referrals, or networking help if you can. Even better, check in on them a month or two later for these things. People when laid off often have a flurry of activity in the beginning, and then everything goes dead silent. Hearing from a colleague, and particularly getting referrals, at a later time can mean a lot. 

Third, you need to acknowledge and manage survivor's guilt. If you feel guilty, remind yourself that layoffs are usually business decisions, not personal ones. It can be unnerving to know that it could as easily have been you that left, but knowing that should help reduce your sense of survivor's guilt. Also, focusing on how you can contribute positively to the remaining team can help.

Fourth, be practical and clarify expectations. Job roles often shift after layoffs. I've been in situations where we only found out "essential" people were missing because their emails started bouncing. Knowing who will cover, and in particular if you have anything new on your plate, is very important. Talk to your manager about any new responsibilities, priorities, or workflow changes to avoid misunderstandings.

Fifth, stay professional and engaged. Team morale may be low, but maintaining professionalism and a positive attitude can help stabilize the work environment. I've been hired into companies after layoffs and found myself in the midst of morale being in the gutter. I have also been in a company where rounds of layoffs created a seemingly permanent cloud of defeat over the teams. In these situations you need to focus on your role and your tasks, setting a tone for colleagues in general and your team in particular. I'm not saying to ignore the mood and be cheerful. Just be professional. 

Sixth and finally, keep an eye on your own career. Layoffs can be a wake-up call. It's like being reminded of your own mortality. You will feel better if you update your resume, strengthen your network, and assess your career goals to ensure you’re prepared for the future.

Surviving a layoff is no easy feat, and it comes with its own set of challenges. While it’s natural to feel a mix of emotions, the best thing you can do is acknowledge them, support your former colleagues, and adapt to the changes in your workplace. At the same time, be mindful of your own career trajectory—staying proactive about your future can help you regain a sense of control. Layoffs disrupt teams, but how you respond can shape both your experience and that of those around you. By staying professional, engaged, and prepared, you can navigate the uncertainty with resilience and purpose.

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