Archives May 2023

The economic downturn has taken its toll on the job market, especially in the tech industry. Since the start of 2023, 127,000 tech sector employees have been laid off worldwide. If the current rate continues, another 900,000 jobs could be lost this year. The fear of recession has forced more than 350 tech companies to layoff workers, including Amazon, Google, Meta (Facebook), Microsoft, Netflix, Salesforce, Spotify, and Twitter.

If you’ve recently been laid off, you’re likely not sure what to do next. Let’s look at some valuable tips that can help you change your mindset, look for new opportunities, and bounce back in no time.

5 Tips to Help You Navigate a Layoff

1. Take Time to Recover, Relax & Reflect

While you don’t want to waste too much time before starting your new job search, it’s also important to mourn the loss of your job. Job loss can be traumatic, and you have to work through the stages of grief before attempting to look for new work.

Even if you knew layoffs were possible, the effect of being laid off can be shocking for your physical and mental wellbeing. Use this time to take care of yourself as you work through grief and recovery. Relax and use the time to heal, maintain a positive mindset, and reflect on what you liked and disliked about your old job.

2. Reach Out to Your Network

Your departure from work may have been sudden, so reach out to friends and colleagues from your former job. Let them know how to get in touch with you. Also, reach out to professional connections who would be willing to provide references for you.

3. Update Your Job Searching Materials

Review all of your job search materials, including your resume, your online portfolios, social media accounts, and cover letters. Highlighting your accomplishments and skills rather than job titles can position you better for interviews. It also lets hiring managers see your layoff wasn’t performance-based.

4. Learn New Skills

The time following your layoff is an ideal time to take skills related classes. Experience and certifications in new skills can help your resume stand out to recruiters and hiring managers. Improving your knowledge and expanding your skills can also improve your outlook and boost your confidence as you move forward.

5. Work with a Recruiter

When you’re ready to start your job search in earnest, consider working with a high-quality recruiter. A good recruiting agency is well connected throughout the business world. Whether you want a full-time job or want to pursue contract or temp work, a recruiter can find the right position for you and recommend you for it.

Conclusion

Being laid off can be an unexpected and scary experience. By focusing on new opportunities and utilizing your network and skills, you can bounce back from your loss in no time.

For help finding your next career move, turn to ABBTECH!

Employee layoffs can and should be a difficult task for an organization. You may have to let employees go that may have worked for the company for years. The decision to lay off workers should never be made lightly. While the process of handling layoffs is clearly outlined in federal and state laws, your top priority should be the employee’s dignity. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure the process is as effective and supportive for your employees as possible.

Employee Layoffs Communicated With Empathy

The financial and structural necessity for employee layoffs may have you stressed and distracted. However, it is essential to remember that your employees are people facing a stressful situation as well.

Give Team Members Advance Notice

Before layoffs begin, take the time to talk to your staff. Let your team members know that layoffs may occur and the reasons why. If the company is struggling, your employees deserve to know before potential layoffs. 

Conduct Layoffs Individually and Privately

When layoffs begin, treat each employee dismissed with dignity and respect. Ensure that you discuss the layoff in person and make the meeting private.

Be Clear and Supportive

Be prepared with the resources and support they need. If the layoffs are temporary, make sure your employee understands the process and their job prospects with the business moving forward. For employees who will not be returning, provide information, resources, feedback. Also, provide references to employees to help them as they move forward in their job search.

Support Your HR Teams

Employee layoffs can be an overwhelming time for your Human Resources department, and the effects of that could potentially spill over to the recently laid-off employees. The impact of job loss is stressful, and your employees may need more support and information than your HR team can handle.

If your company is dealing with large-scale layoffs, create a dedicated online portal or website with resources and information for impacted employees. Provide as much information as you can in writing so that laid off workers can review the materials at home. This allows your HR team to work more efficiently.

Conclusion

Finally, recognize that employee layoffs can be one of the most difficult times for your company. Also, recognize that it is also an opportunity to demonstrate your sensitivity, professionalism, and the company values that epitomize your brand.

When you’re ready to build your team back up, let our team at ABBTECH lend you a hand!