Employees might think that being laid off is due to their job performance. However, it’s important to remember that it’s not a reflection on you but is due to your company’s financial situation or restructuring efforts. If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being laid off, you’ll need to think clearly as the next few steps you take are critical to ensure your security for the future.

What to do after being laid off from your job:

1. Get all your ducks in a row
2. Talk to your manager and request a letter of recommendation 
3. Consider your career path
4. Search for a new job

1.    Get all your ducks in a row

If you’ve been laid off, one of the first actions you’ll need to take is sorting out your finances. Firstly, we recommend reading your employment contract to see what’s outlined and if it mentions a severance package and layoff benefits. Keep in mind these mightn’t be on your contract, which is why it’s crucial to find out this information so you can see what other options you have to help stay afloat during this time.

To ensure you know what your redundancy payout is by law read the Fair Work Redundancy pay and entitlements section.

Another option that may be available to you is applying for unemployment benefits on myGov—but make sure you prepare all of your documents to access your income in a timely manner.

2.    Talk to your manager and request a letter of recommendation 

While you’re still processing the news of being laid off, remember to ask your manager the important questions. Ask why they’ve chosen to do this and if there’s any possibility that you could return to the business in the near future.

This will give you an idea if your time at the company has come to an end or whether you can expect to return to the business later. Knowing this will also help you determine if you should search for a contract or permanent role going forth.

We also recommend asking for a reference letter from your manager or supervisor to show future employers this situation was out of your control and to highlight your skills and the value you brought to the role while you were employed.

3.    Consider your career path

If the recent layoff has left you contemplating the instability of your career path, now might be the best time to consider a career or role change. Embracing this in-between job period could allow you to discover a different job path that will offer you more stability.

During this period, it’s also worthwhile exploring new goals for your future. Whether you’re aiming for a similar job to before or pursuing a new career or role, this downtime will give you the chance to redefine your career objectives and plans for the future.

4.    And, of course, search for a new job

If you’re still thinking about what to do after being laid off, use this free time to look for your next role. Creating a structured plan and treating your job search as if it’s your full-time job is one way to keep up the momentum and find a role that you’ll enjoy.

It will help you stay disciplined and motivated to keep achieving. You can spend your time editing your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn and following a schedule to complete these.

Need help updating your resume’s soft skills or addressing your current or previous career gaps? Or how about improving your personal brand on LinkedIn? Take a look at our previous blogs for some guidance.

Have a question for us? If you’re a job seeker on the lookout for your next role, a hiring manager looking to fill a position, or have more questions about what to do after being laid off? Contact us at Humanised Group! We’re here to help you succeed.