November 12, 2024 • 36 mins
It’s a tight job market, and many young professionals are currently facing the first layoff of their career. But you don’t have to navigate this uncertainty alone. In this episode, Gianna and Jamé talk about how to cope when layoffs are on the horizon, what to do if your job is cut… and how to figure out your next opportunity.
Do you have any burning questions about work? We want to hear them! You can email us your questions at letstalkoffline@linkedin.com.
For more, follow Gianna (http://linkedin.com/in/giannaprudente) and Jamé (http://linkedin.com/in/jamejackson) on LinkedIn and subscribe to Gianna’s weekly newsletter: https://linkedin.com/letstalkoffline.
For more on how to navigate job loss, listen to Get Hired with Andrew Seaman: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/navigating-life-after-layoff-get-hired-by-linkedin-news-fw16f/
If you’d like more information on how to navigate what assistance is available to you if you’re laid off, check out these resources:
https://www.usa.gov/unemployment-benefits
https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/unemployment-insurance
https://www.healthcare.gov/have-job-based-coverage/if-you-lose-job-based-coverage/
Credits
Gianna Prudente - Co-host, Early Career Development Editor, LinkedIn
Jamé Jackson - Co-host, Community Manager, LinkedIn
Sabrina Fang - Producer, Western Sound
Maya Pope-Chappell - Director of Content & Audience Development, LinkedIn
Jessi Hempel - Chief Content Officer, LinkedIn
Savannah Wright - Senior Producer, Western Sound
Sarah Dealy - Associate Producer, Western Sound
Alex MacInnis - Engineer, Western Sound
Courtney Coupe - Head of Original Programming, LinkedIn
Dan Roth - Editor in Chief, LinkedIn
Ben Adair - Executive Producer, Western Sound
Katrina Norvell - Executive Producer, iHeartMedia
Nikke Ettore - Executive Producer, iHeartMedia
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
LinkedIn News. I had just moved to New York and
then a layoff happened and I was like, oh crap,
I can't get a job. What is it for me?
I called up my mom. I was like, I'm going
to come back to DC. She was like, I will
help you, you know, pay your rent if you need it,
I will help you, but I am not going to
(00:22):
allow you to come back here. You you have something
that you need to do in New York. And Mommy,
if you're listening to this episode, from the bottom of
my heart, oh my god, I'm gonna get teary eyed,
but like it, I am so thankful because she's knew
that if I had given up on that dream, then like,
had I moved back home to DC, I wouldn't be
here with you. I wouldn't be on LinkedIn. There's so
many things that would be different in my life.
Speaker 2 (00:44):
From LinkedIn News and I heard podcasts.
Speaker 3 (00:47):
This is Let's Talk Offline, a show about what it
takes to thrive in the early years of your career
without sacrificing your values, sanity or sleep.
Speaker 2 (00:55):
I'm Gianna Prdente and.
Speaker 1 (00:57):
I'm Jamaie Jackson Gadsden. So guys, today we're going to
be talking about something that's kind of uncomfortable and it's
also scary. Layoffs. They're unexpected and they're super anxiety inducing,
and I mean, honestly, we hope you never have to
experience one in your career, but your work bestie Jamay
is going to tell you if someone who has gone
through four that the reality is we've seen a lot
(01:18):
of layoffs these past few years, and they've also hit
many different industries.
Speaker 3 (01:23):
It really is rough out there and super scary to
know that an employer can kind of just drop you
on a dime. Layoffs can feel out of your control,
and that's because they largely are. But what you can
do is be prepared. That's what we're going to talk
about today. We're gonna help you deal with the uncertainty
of possibly getting laid off and share what to do
if it actually happens.
Speaker 1 (01:50):
So I know a lot of you guys have probably
seen on social media that people are posting their layoff
stories more and more. It's really interesting because I remember
time when we weren't talking about layoffs so publicly, and
I would just say, over the last couple of years,
in particular, I've been seeing a lot of people share
their stories, some even going as far as recording the
(02:10):
actual moment they get laid off and posting it online. Now,
there's been a lot of layoffs in different industries over
the years, and I know how daunting and scary that
can feel. But it's been really also nice to see
how people are talking about it in such an open way.
I think what it's doing is it's allowing for a
lot of community and support and also for you to
(02:31):
just understand this is not just the me thing, like
I am in this shared experience with other people. So Gion,
I want to ask you, like, have you ever gone
through a layoff?
Speaker 3 (02:42):
So I've never been laid off myself, but now being
three years into my career, I've experienced the past, you know,
two years of all of those layoffs that were happening
across industries, and they happen at LinkedIn, and that was
when I was like, Okay, wow, this is really hitting
close to home. Obviously, there's a lot of anxiety when
(03:02):
it comes to layoffs. You hear chatter online. I mean
there's like a lot of websites for people who work
in tech and people are commenting, you know, I think
layoffs are happening, and it just I'm on those apps,
so listen, I'm not because it was just creating more anxiety.
So when layoffs happened, people were like, oh, how did
you not anticipate this?
Speaker 2 (03:18):
And I'm like, I'm not on those sites, like I can't,
I can't.
Speaker 3 (03:22):
So you know, it just creates a lot of anxiety.
And I remember when layoffs were happening at our company,
I had just moved out and I remember sitting in
my apartment reading that email, thinking, crap, what if I'm next? Right,
because you feel so out of the know, and it
can feel sometimes super out of the blue, and it
(03:42):
affects the entire you know, vibe of the team and
the larger company, right, and then just that general anxiety
of are there going to be more?
Speaker 2 (03:51):
Is it going to be me next? And I think
for me it was.
Speaker 3 (03:55):
A real wake up call of like, Okay, things can
change on a dime, So you need to.
Speaker 2 (04:00):
Be proactive with your work.
Speaker 3 (04:02):
If something's not working, don't wait for someone to tell you.
Speaker 2 (04:04):
You got to shift it yourself.
Speaker 1 (04:06):
Yeah, I totally agree. I think something that a lot
of people don't talk about when it comes to layoffs
is survivor's guilt, which is what you me so many
people experience right where you are not impacted by the layoff,
but you feel so guilty because now you're asking yourself, well,
why was this person? You know, these are some of
your friends or your colleagues, people who have been in
companies for a long time, right, and there's just all
(04:29):
these questions. And the truth of the matter is there
are more questions than answers usually. Now for me, I
have been on the other side of this.
Speaker 4 (04:37):
I have.
Speaker 1 (04:39):
Survived for layoffs, and I've also been impacked by one.
And the one that I was impacted by hurt the
worst because I had just moved to New York and
I had actually just moved out of my friend's apartment
into my own spot with roommates. So I was feeling like, oh, yes,
I'm a big girl now, like I can you know,
I'm paying rent, utilities, all the things, and like I
(05:00):
my own room. And then a layoff happened and I
was like, oh crap, and I was out of work
for over six months. Now. I had a really great
severance package that essentially paid for like six months worth,
so it was nice, you know, I think for me.
I first got in there and I was trying to
get a job immediately right, and then I realized, oh,
(05:20):
this is harder than I thought. And around month one
then the depression kicks in because now I'm like, holy crap,
I've moved to New York. I can't get a job.
What is it for me? I called up my mom.
I was like, I'm going to come back to DC.
Like by month two, I was over it. She was like,
I will help you, you know, pay your rent if
you need it, I will help you, but I am
(05:41):
not going to allow you to come back here. You
have something that you need to do in New York.
And Mommy, if you're listening to this episode from the
bottom of my heart, oh my god, I'm gonna get teary.
Speaker 5 (05:51):
I but like it.
Speaker 1 (05:52):
I am so thankful because she's knew that if I
had given up on that dream then So I say
all of that because a moment, momentary circumstance doesn't dictate
your future. Right Like, had I moved back home to DC,
I wouldn't be here with you, I wouldn't be at LinkedIn.
There's so many things that would be different in my life.
But the layoffs that I survived are also difficult. One
(06:12):
the survivor's guilt that I talked about. Two. Usually when
you have a reduction in workforce, and if a layoff
is the reason why, it's not like they're immediately backfilling
those roles. So you put a lot of pressure then
on the people who are left.
Speaker 3 (06:26):
Yeah, and we saw that especially over the past few years,
because a lot of the layups were due to budget
cuts exactly.
Speaker 1 (06:32):
And then you also have issues where like if a
particular industry is being impacted, now you're getting droves of people,
Like it's wild to me sometimes when I'm talking to
my friends who particularly don't work in tech, because in
their minds, they're not processing, Oh, all these tech companies
have essentially over hired right after the pandemic, and they're
like they can't conceptualize it. Whereas we're hearing ten, fifteen,
(06:55):
thirty thousand people getting laid off, and then you're worried
because you're like, oh, gosh, now all those people out
in the job market, and so like, now you know
for every job there's.
Speaker 2 (07:04):
Five thousand competition.
Speaker 1 (07:06):
Yeah, And so I would definitely say like surviving layoffs
has not been easy, but I think for me, what
helped me get through the one, particularly with our company,
was I had been through so many I knew how
this was going to play out right, Like it's almost
like a rinse and repeat. I know how this is
about to feel. I know how this is about to go.
I know the space that we're going to have to
hold for other people. So again, layoffs are not easy
(07:31):
for anyone out there who's been impacted. My heart goes out.
I know what it feels like. But take it from
your work bestiage. You may you will get through this.
You will survive this. I hope this episode is going
to be helpful for you, and also do see that
this could also be a positive redirection that pushes you
into something even bigger, better, in something that will blow
(07:51):
your mind.
Speaker 3 (07:52):
I appreciate that perspective because as somebody who is early
in my career and hasn't experience that personally being laid off.
I mean, my voice literally just quivers thinking about that
happening to me. And like I was saying earlier, when
layoffs hit the company, I thought, holy crap, am my next?
And it really did get me thinking, you know, what
(08:13):
would I do if this was me? And especially around
that time, there were so many headlines around layoffs, like
you couldn't ignore it, And so I started thinking, and
I hadn't given you know, enough thought to it, probably,
but I started thinking, you know, what would I do?
Because honestly, like, if I'm being transparent, my initial reaction
would be like to freak the heck out, Like I
(08:34):
would freak out, like I would have a full blown
panic attack. And I mean, you don't have a salary anymore,
and you have expenses, and that's so terrifying. And I
think what's so unsettling about, you know, being in an
atmosphere of layoffs is like people are having conversations about
you when you're not in that room, and that is
(08:55):
such a horrible, unsettling feeling. So yeah, yeah, I think,
you know, if you're early in your career and you're
listening to this and you haven't been laid off and
you feel this way too, you know, like, what would
I do if that is an experience that I have?
Speaker 2 (09:09):
At some point?
Speaker 3 (09:10):
We're going to talk today about the steps that you
can take to kind of create a plan, because listen,
I need one, you need one, So hopefully we can
figure this.
Speaker 2 (09:18):
All out together.
Speaker 1 (09:22):
All this layoff talk makes me nervous, But what helps
is having a strategy coming up. We're going to talk
about the things you should consider. I'm putting together your
layoff plan. All right, guys, So we are back and
(09:43):
we are going to be talking about how to deal
with the anxiety of possibly getting laid off, as well
as what to do if you actually are. Now the
reality is, when it comes to layoffs, the first thing
you're probably going to experience is layoff anxiety, and that's
the feeling of uncertainty and at the thought of possibly
getting laid off. It doesn't even have to actually have
(10:03):
happened yet, it's the fear of it.
Speaker 2 (10:05):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (10:06):
Maybe you know you're starting to hear rumors about possible layoffs,
or your company isn't doing well financially, so you're thinking, okay,
are cuts coming? Maybe they already have started doing layoffs
and you're wondering, okay, am I next that layoff anxiety
can really affect the overall work environment and the morale
of the team, but also your work. Right, it's really
(10:28):
hard to focus when you're concerned that your job isn't safe.
And we all have the right to feel scared during
such an uncertain time. So, Jimmie, I'm wondering from you,
as somebody who's experienced for layoffs in your career, how
have you dealt with that anxiety of potentially being laid off.
Speaker 1 (10:45):
Yeah, there's a couple of things that I would recommend.
First of all, lean on your community and your network.
One thing that a friend of mine told me years
ago was that she, having worked in HR, would be
in rooms with people and when it was time for layoffs.
Sometimes the one thing that separated a candidate being laid
off and not is the rapport that that candidate may
(11:06):
have had with their team. So if you are someone
who comes in you do great work, you have, you know,
sown seeds across the company. People can attest to your.
Speaker 2 (11:16):
Characters seeds like.
Speaker 1 (11:22):
Some sunlight on them, don't kill them. Now, I don't
have a green thumb, but like, sometimes it would be
that small right, And so obviously that doesn't apply for
every opportunity, that doesn't apply for every layoff. But I
have always carried that with me, that your community will
rally for you, and your community will show up. So
lean on your community and network. I mean, especially if
(11:44):
you can start to read the tea leaves and it's
starting to show something weird. Make sure you are connecting
with those coworkers, your mentors, your family, your friends, set
up those informationals right, start acting as if you were
already looking for another job. You don't have to go
as hard as if you are. But you can always
operate in a season of networking. And yeah, definitely always
(12:09):
getting laid off is not an uncommon experience, and so
more than likely you are going to probably also find
people who are gonna talk, who are gonna also share
their layoff stories. Another thing that I think is super
important is like thinking about that post layoff game plan.
Do you need to sit down and you need to
come up with some type of plan. Okay, this is
gonna help you feel sure. This is when all of
my structured girlies come to the front. Okay, because this
(12:32):
is when you can be doing things like updating your resume, obviously,
updating your LinkedIn right, sharing your portfolio, writing up your skills,
looking and researching what resources are readily available to you.
So this is gonna help set you up so that
even if you are faced with the possibility of getting
laid off, you know that if that happens, you are
in a position where you have everything you need another thing,
(12:56):
go and get those recommendations. You know, we always love
to hit somebody up after we're like hey, big hey,
can you like be like someone who like if they
call you, like, be like how you said earlier, be
on the offense. Gather those things up as you can.
And then the last thing I would just say is like,
know how to tune out the noise For me, I
(13:16):
love to journal, I love to create vision manifestation boards. Right,
do something that makes you not focus so much on
what the apps are saying, right, because you will. You
will fake news, right, You will literally like gaslight yourself
into an anxiety attack. Like you don't need.
Speaker 2 (13:33):
That, Yeah, exactly, Like.
Speaker 1 (13:35):
If it's gonna happen, it's gonna happen. You stressing out
and looking every single day looking at the calendar seeing
like it's today d day, Like no, it's not to
go work, So like just focus on what you can
do and prepare yourself with your community.
Speaker 3 (13:47):
And I want to add something that I appreciated when
we had Jeanine Dolne on the show talking about side
hustles a few episodes back, So make sure you guys
listen to that if you haven't already. But she talked
about being laid off and how kind of was the
turning point for her to go full time into content creation.
And I feel like with gen Z being a generation
that has so openly embraced side hustles, it's a time
(14:09):
to really focus.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
On that other work, that side gig.
Speaker 3 (14:13):
Right, So, like, if you're somebody who has a side
hustle or has a hobby that is important to you,
focus your efforts there and your energy there because that
could potentially be something that you can fall back on
if you know you are laid off.
Speaker 1 (14:27):
Yeah, and now you have the time, right, you have
the time, maybe you have the resources, especially if you've
gotten like a severance package, like go all in on
your dream because you never know where that can go.
Speaker 3 (14:38):
Yeah, And I think also it's like a reminder that
there's life outside of work, and there's other things you know,
to put your energy toward that can be a little
bit of an escape. Okay, So now let's say unfortunately
the layoff happens and you're impacted. We're going to walk
you through what to do, the steps you should take listen.
Being on the jobs and career development beat for early careers,
(14:59):
I've been so thrown into content around layoffs. The biggest
thing has been this idea of pausing. I mentioned if
I were to be laid off, I would panic freak out.
I would probably transparently panic apply. That's not the most
effective way to start job surging. So this idea of like, first,
take a breath, take a beat. It can feel really
(15:21):
overwhelming when you get laid off, and you know, feel
those feelings, right like, take a second and grieve. Honestly,
you know, I feel very closely tied to the company
where I currently work, in passionate about my work. So
I would literally have to like grieve losing the job
and also be kind to yourself, you know, give yourself
some space to acknowledge what has happened, protect your mental health,
(15:45):
do what you need to do so that you are
then ready to start looking for jobs. And also remember
during this time that layoffs are not a reflection of
your skills, your experience, your talents, right like. Unfortunately, a
lot of times like are just a consequence of unfortunate circumstances.
What's happening in the economy and it's not a reflection
(16:05):
of your worth, So keep your head up, don't let
it knock your confidence, and then it's time to start,
you know, looking at those resources and start job searching.
Speaker 1 (16:13):
Yeah. I really appreciate you sharing that, g because I
think we always have to remember that, like, at the
end of the day, these are corporations that we do
work for, but like you also need to take a
step back, take a pause, and remember that your worth
is not attached to your work. So let's also talk
about resources. Though. The first thing that I would definitely
recommend is navigating government assistance. Y'all. I really want to
(16:34):
make sure you are listening for this part, okay, because
this is so important and these are mistakes that I
made the first time I got laid off. There's a
lot of government resources that you can rely on if
you're laid off.
Speaker 2 (16:44):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (16:44):
The biggest one unemployment insurance. Okay. Each state is gonna
have their own requirements, so you're gonna definitely have to
make sure you check that out in the qualification criteria.
But please look into applying. No matter what, a lot
of people will be like, oh no, I'm a find
another job, baby, apply, Okay, just make sure that you
cover yourself. Links to all of that is also going
(17:04):
to be in the show description, so make sure you
guys check that out.
Speaker 2 (17:07):
Wait, so I have a good question on that.
Speaker 3 (17:08):
Can you still apply for unemployment insurance if you're getting
severance from your company?
Speaker 1 (17:12):
Great question. So it actually depends on the state, which
is why everyone's going to need to make sure that
they check out the criteria.
Speaker 2 (17:18):
Gotcha.
Speaker 1 (17:19):
Yeah, So the government will actually offer you a stipend
for the number of weeks depending on your state while
you look for another job, which is always great. Another
thing to look into is health insurance. Now, look, y'all,
I used to be twenty three once before, ok two,
I thought I was inevitably gonna stay young forever. And
then I cracked my knee. And then I'm like, what
(17:39):
my knees crack in the morning? Now, okay, wait, I
know what age?
Speaker 2 (17:43):
Were your knees cracking like this?
Speaker 1 (17:45):
I have never had strong kneed? Can Meg the Stallion
have never been the same person. But I say all
of that to say that health insurance matters.
Speaker 4 (17:53):
Right.
Speaker 1 (17:53):
You do not want to be out here without health insurance.
And then something comes up, So applying for health insurance
is all going to vary by state. You know, you
have a lot of common options, including Cobra, which a
lot of people have heard about, or you can even
shop the healthcare dot gov marketplace. One thing that I
will definitely emphasize here is more than likely when you
(18:14):
are let go, you will have a conversation with HR.
Usually it either might be with HR or it might
be your manager. It depends also on the company size
and how many people they have to get through. If
you have the opportunity to talk to HR directly ask
them questions. In that moment, you are going to probably
want to stop thinking, you're going to zone out, You're
going to dissociate, right. You need to stay present and
(18:37):
in the moment and level headed and ask the questions
because your HR professional is going to be able to
tell you where to look and even how much longer
you have health insurance for right.
Speaker 3 (18:49):
Yeah, that's such an important call out. And I feel
like when you were talking before about your layoff game
plan to start when you're crafting that during that anxiety period,
you should write out the question that you would ask,
because I'm sure during that conversation your mind goes blank.
Speaker 2 (19:04):
So prepare those questions ahead of time.
Speaker 1 (19:05):
Yes, and then lastly, I'll say look into subsidize training programs.
I think that when you are not working, that is
a great time for you to start upskilling and like
learning other things. This might be a time where, for instance,
if you want to break into tech, taking a coding
class or learning what SEQL queries are, there are a
(19:28):
lot of training programs that offer it subsidized, which means
like you know, maybe like pro rated or discount of
depending on how much you make. And you might even
be able to find programs that help you develop new
skills or improve the ones you already have. Also, you
might work for a company that offers that. You know,
I have worked at other companies where a certain period
of months after you've been laid off, they will help
(19:49):
you search for another job right or send you resources.
So again, these are questions you can ask HR, but
also include that in your game plan of this as
to things that you should follow up on, because this
is the important stuff. Guys like I know we're gonna
want to be sad girls, and we can be okay,
g and I are not telling you can't. We want
to be proactive sad girls.
Speaker 3 (20:09):
Okay, I want to bring up a question from one
of our listeners. This is our segment Dear Work Bestie,
where we answer your questions. This week's comes from nine
in New York.
Speaker 5 (20:19):
I love to know how soon are you supposed to
start looking after a layoff? Obviously it depends on each
person's situation, but would love some general guidelines. Also, how
do you offer support to colleagues who are laid off
when you weren't affected yourself, even to those that you
weren't that close to.
Speaker 3 (20:36):
This is such a great question, and I feel like
one that a lot of people have is when do
I start job searching? And like I said before, panic
applying is not the most effective strategy, but understandably so
some people have to start applying immediately. In general, I
think that brief pause is still important, even if it's
just you know, a few minutes, like just take a
(20:58):
second to breathe and okay, what is my next step?
When you decide to start looking for a job is
of course going to be dependent on your financial situation.
So if you're receiving severance after getting laid off, or
have a lot of savings, maybe you don't need to
jump into that job search right away and you can
take a break, But maybe you don't have you know,
the financial backing to be able to afford that break,
(21:21):
so you have to start looking for a job immediately.
Either way, evaluating your finances is a really good starting
point that will help you figure out when do I
need to start looking for a job. Another thing to consider,
which is why I think this pause period is so important,
is maybe this, you know, layoff is a chance for
you to pivot right We've seen that a lot over
(21:43):
the last few years. Workers are getting laid off in
one industry and finding jobs in another. So it's your
opportunity to decide is this the right career path for me?
Looking back on your work history or looking back on
just that previous job, thinking what did I like about this,
what did I not like? And how does that inform
what I want in a future opportunity? And maybe that
(22:03):
means like I want to go to a whole new
industry right like I don't even want to stay in
this role anymore.
Speaker 1 (22:08):
Let me just add to that, g that that is
such an important thing for you to ask yourself. That
is exactly what I did when when I kept getting
impacted by layoffs in media, particularly in journalism. I was like,
I love this so much, but I need something with
a little bit more security.
Speaker 6 (22:25):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (22:25):
I was like, I can't do this, and asking yourself
that question might actually save you a lot of heartache
down the future. I was able to pivot and I
get the best of both worlds now.
Speaker 3 (22:34):
Yeah, and that's part of it too, Like, even if
you personally don't want to maybe pivot, you might think
for my career and whatever my goals are, it might
be best for me to, you know, find a more
stable path.
Speaker 2 (22:44):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (22:45):
And then of course, once you start applying and you're
going through the interview process, you are going to be
asked what happened if let's say it's a shorter stint
on your resume. So let's say you were at a
company for a year or so or less than that
and you were laid off. You know, the good news
is that companies now don't look at getting laid off
as a red flag. It's unfortunately become so common that
(23:06):
it's not, you know, something that's going to stand out
too much on your resume, especially in this job market.
You know, you just have to say, unfortunately, I was
laid off. And if you decided to take let's say
a few months off in between your job and finding
a new ones you have a break. You can explain
the situation to you know, the potential employer by saying,
(23:27):
you know why you decided to take that break, and
what you learned during it, what did you gain from it,
what clarity did that give you? And during that time,
you know, did you take advantage of you know, upscilling
programs and keeping your skills fresh. Just keep it short, simple,
and answer honestly.
Speaker 1 (23:41):
Yeah. Okay. So going back to NIC's question on how
to offer support to colleagues who have been laid off.
So the first thing I think is important is to
reassure them that a layoff again does not reflect their
competency or talent. And you can do that by acknowledging
all the work that they've done, I mean, all the
work that they've done to help you, all the work
they've done to help the company, or even what you
(24:01):
appreciate about them as a coworker. Next, and this is
super important, take a step back and listen. Everybody is
so quick to offer advice and it pisses me. Yeah,
it pisses me off.
Speaker 2 (24:14):
Only because you don't like unsolicited advice.
Speaker 1 (24:18):
Unknowing, you know, Gianna, I love it as much as
I love yapping.
Speaker 2 (24:24):
It all comes.
Speaker 1 (24:26):
Yapping. But I think that, like sometimes we forget that
when someone is grieving, because this is grief. Sometimes you
just need to offer a space to listen. And maybe
in that moment they're not in the right heart posture
to receive feedback yet or advice. Maybe they just need
to be angry, maybe they just need to grieve, Maybe
(24:48):
they just need to be sad, maybe they need to
go through all their emotions. Be there to listen, don't
be quick to offer advice or ask what their next
steps are. Be there as a supportive person. But then
when you do get asked for advice, make sure that
it is specific and actionable. It can be something as
simple as if you ever need a talk, I'm here,
(25:10):
or let's say, for instance, you are a really great writer,
help your friends craft their about me section on LinkedIn right,
help people review their resumes, like utilize your network and resources.
But make sure that it is specific versus being just general,
which really can almost help nobody. And I would just say,
like that helps take the pressure off of that person
(25:31):
without having to figure out like how they can lean
on you. But then it also kind of helps them
feel a little less overwhelmed because they know they have community.
So if you're going to offer, be specific.
Speaker 3 (25:42):
Yeah, and it's just one less thing for them to
have to think about exactly.
Speaker 5 (25:46):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (25:46):
Okay, So guys, look, I know this is a lot
of information. I know we have thrown so much at
you today, but again, there's going to be a ton
of resources down in the show description, so definitely make
sure you check the show description. And if you need
more advice on how to handle layoffs, one of our
own LinkedIn editors, Andrew Semen, has a great podcast called
(26:08):
get Hired with tons of amazing tips on how to
navigate job lost, so definitely make sure you check that
out as well. Lastly, if you've been laid off and
you want to share your experience, comment in this week's
newsletter or even create a post and at Gianna and me,
we would love to hear your stories. I mean, honestly,
I hope that some of the tips that gian and
I were able to share today will help you actually
(26:29):
prepare for this a little bit more. But listen to
me when I say this, you are not at the
mercy of what happens to you. You can be proactive
and prepared in the event you are ever impacted by
a layoff.
Speaker 3 (26:44):
Layoffs are definitely scary, but just know that you've got
this and we've got your back up.
Speaker 2 (26:50):
Next.
Speaker 3 (26:50):
Do you know one word that makes me nervous?
Speaker 2 (26:53):
Hey? That's it.
Speaker 3 (26:55):
Just Hey, we're gonna talk about why after the break.
Speaker 1 (27:07):
So normally we close out our show sharing our like
final takeaways, but I want to change it up a
little bit this week, and Gianna, I want to put
the spotlight on you. Okay, you started off the episode
talking about how you've never been directly impacted by a layoffs.
You've seen colleagues get impacted and what that did for you,
and you are in a position I think a lot
(27:27):
of other people in their early career are right, which
is like, you've heard of layoffs, you've seen them play
out on social media. You kind of always have this
little fear that it's going to come knocking on your door.
I want to know after today and all the things
that we've discussed, like, what are some of the takeaways
that you are taking, What is your game plan? What
is the Giona game plan.
Speaker 2 (27:47):
Oh God in the hot seat for this now.
Speaker 3 (27:51):
You know. I think the biggest thing that I'm taking
away from our conversation is that layoffs are something that
so many people experience, so you are not alone in that.
I feel like that's very comforting to know. I do,
you know, admittedly think that it would hurt a lot,
but I think this conversation has really shown me the
(28:11):
importance of having a game plan. You know, I've clearly
given some thought to this, but I don't have anything.
Speaker 2 (28:16):
Like actually fleshed out. And he just said, my resume
is collecting us right now.
Speaker 3 (28:24):
So I think that's a really good first step, is
assessing my resume, just making sure that I'm updating that
so it's not just a huge task, and also making
sure that I have a good outlook on my finances
and understanding of my financial landscape.
Speaker 2 (28:38):
So yeah, I think those are my takeaways.
Speaker 1 (28:41):
I appreciate that. And I think what you were saying
about being prepared and having a game plan does not
mean that you are ready to leave your job right
Like people start saying, oh, let me brush up the resume,
Like wait, you get to own your career and that
is so important. Yeah, all right, this has been a
pretty heavy episode. I get it. So let's even mood
a little bit. You know, let's get a little comfortable.
(29:04):
We are gonna do cringe. Are cool?
Speaker 7 (29:06):
Oh?
Speaker 1 (29:06):
I love this.
Speaker 2 (29:07):
That's when we get to.
Speaker 1 (29:07):
Talk about things like workplace trends, things that are happening
in the workforce out in the world, and Gian and
I get to put our gen z and millennial minds
and we get to discuss is it cringe or is
it cool? Now I'm a little nervous. I'm already cringing
a little bit because I have no idea what we're
talking about this week.
Speaker 2 (29:23):
Okay, I feel like I already know. Every time I say,
I'm like, I know what you're gonna think.
Speaker 3 (29:27):
But okay, this week we're talking about hey, hanging hey.
Speaker 1 (29:32):
Like for h y Okay. I was gonna say, for
a cow do cows?
Speaker 2 (29:36):
Oh No, not like hey like enang okay? Hey, Hey.
Speaker 3 (29:39):
So this means, okay, I'll give you a scenario to
help you understand. So let's say, for instance, I'm messaging
on Slack. I just say hey, that's it, and I
wait for you to reply before I tell you why
I'm messaging you, which maybe for you and I are dynamic.
Speaker 2 (29:56):
You know, you might not be like, oh god, what
is it?
Speaker 3 (29:59):
But for somebody who maybe has a bit more influence
if they message you in that way, or your manager
or you know in general, right, Like it's hey, Haying,
and it can cause a lot of anxiety because it's
like what does this person want?
Speaker 2 (30:11):
What is coming next? I am scared?
Speaker 3 (30:13):
And once you answer, you're like, Okay, they know them around.
I got to answer their next thing quick. So what
is it so scary?
Speaker 2 (30:21):
So what do you think, Hey Haying.
Speaker 1 (30:22):
I'm not answering.
Speaker 2 (30:23):
Here're done?
Speaker 1 (30:24):
No, because what are we doing?
Speaker 2 (30:26):
Like no, I don't like it?
Speaker 1 (30:27):
No, what are you doing?
Speaker 2 (30:28):
Yeah?
Speaker 1 (30:29):
Like if you had enough time to write, hey, you
could have at least given me like a like a
quick trailer, something like a five word like.
Speaker 2 (30:36):
What a little prevow?
Speaker 8 (30:38):
Yeah?
Speaker 1 (30:38):
I don't like that. No, yeah no, But see, the
thing is like, because my anxiety would actually spike because
I'm just like what and that has actually happened to
me before. It was senior leadership Like they do that
and then like I don't hear anything. I go into
a meeting again, in the middle of a meeting, then
they're like hey, send me five examples of this, Like
right now I'm talking to like the senior CEO of
(30:58):
like well, and I'm like what that's eye twitches like no, no, please, yeah, please,
I do not I but you know what when whenever
that happens, I try to remember, like certain people that's
how they communicate. But I would say I think the
anxiety comes from it being in a work environment. If
(31:20):
you are the person who does that, just kind of
like give people a little teaser, a little sound bite,
a little send a voice not you know, gion and
I love the voice. That would be great or even
just like a quick like hey do you have blah
blah blah blah insert And also when you do that,
add a deadline. Oh god, this is add a dead.
Speaker 3 (31:40):
Oh my gosh no, because when you are ever messaging today,
you got rules to follow.
Speaker 1 (31:45):
I need I need an eta of like when you
need this buy because everything is gonna feel like a
level ten priority. But like you just saying hey makes
it feel so casual. No, I don't like it.
Speaker 3 (31:54):
Yeah, I am like so not here for it because
it gives me so much anxiety of like what's coming next.
Speaker 2 (32:01):
I'm the person that.
Speaker 3 (32:02):
I'm like, so opposite of hay Hanging, I will like literally.
Speaker 2 (32:07):
Type out a whole novel to you.
Speaker 3 (32:09):
I will be like, hey, like whatever, whole novel of
everything I need.
Speaker 2 (32:13):
It's all going in one message, to.
Speaker 3 (32:15):
The point where like my manager has been like, wow,
you had that message ready?
Speaker 1 (32:18):
Yeah, prescript it.
Speaker 2 (32:20):
I do.
Speaker 9 (32:21):
Sometimes I Oh my god, you guys are gonna think
I'm clinically insane, which I am. I mean, but I
will like message like, I will type out the message
also to myself in slack first, because I don't want
people to see.
Speaker 2 (32:32):
Like I'm typing for so long? Is that crazy?
Speaker 1 (32:35):
Actually I do the same thing. Okay, I write it
in my notes app yeah, and then yeah I haven't
read Yeah. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (32:41):
Let us know. What do you guys think about hay Hanging?
Are you a hay Hanger? Why are You'll just.
Speaker 1 (32:48):
Message us and they just say hey, and that's their response.
If we don't, I'm not I'm sorry, just kidding gian
and I will answer because we love you all. Okay, guys,
this has been immedy episode, but I hope that you
guys have been able to take away a lot of
actionable tips that you feel empowered by. Thank you guys
so much for listening.
Speaker 3 (33:08):
Yes, thank you guys, and make sure if you're not
already following our newsletter, Let's Talk Offline, where we go
even deeper into the topics we discuss on the pod.
You can share all your takes for our segments like
cringer cool, if you're hanging, or all the things. You
can find the link in the show description and it's
also in my LinkedIn bio.
Speaker 2 (33:26):
It's called you Guessed it.
Speaker 1 (33:28):
Let's Talk Offline.
Speaker 2 (33:31):
I like it stunning now.
Speaker 1 (33:32):
Also, I'm gonna give a huge shout out Tony for
sending in their question. I I know that that was
probably a hard question to ask. We appreciate it. We
want you all to know that you also have a
friend in us. You can send us your questions. Okay,
information on hab you that is also in the show description.
Speaker 3 (33:48):
One last thing, make sure you guys rate and follow
the show wherever you like to listen. I'm a Spotify girly,
what are you doing?
Speaker 9 (33:55):
I'm Apple podcast, but I do love a Spotify love
all right, And before you guys, thank you.
Speaker 3 (34:00):
Remember Jimmy and I've always got your back. So if
something comes up in the meantime, let's talk offline.
Speaker 2 (34:06):
I'm Jianna Prudenti.
Speaker 1 (34:07):
And I'm Jamaie Jackson Gadson Gollop. Before you go, we're
going to end the show a little differently. Today we
ask listeners who've experienced layoffs to share their messages of support,
and we got an overwhelming response. Job loss is such
a common experience nowadays, so if you're going through it,
it helps to know you're not alone. So stick around
(34:28):
and I hope you enjoy.
Speaker 7 (34:35):
Hey, So I actually got laid off, not once, but twice,
and I have to say, if you've recently gotten laid off,
that's not where you were meant to be and it's tough,
but it'll be so much better one way or another.
You'll be grateful this happened to you. And that's what
happened to me.
Speaker 4 (34:52):
I've changed careers multiple times, and I've also been laid
off various times for reasons outside of my control. Always
have found that my network in my community get me
to the next place, and I always find something bigger
and better. Hi.
Speaker 8 (35:07):
I was laid off in twenty twenty three, and a
few months after I started my own business for those
laid off recently. This might be a low point. So
whatever your next move will be, be bold, whether it
be finding your next job or starting your own business,
say strong and you got this.
Speaker 6 (35:23):
Being laid off can be scary due to the uncertainty,
but you will be okay. Sometimes the best things come
from in certain situations, So take a moment and breathe.
Great things take time, and you will be okay.
Speaker 3 (35:38):
Let's Talk offline as a production of LinkedIn News and
iHeart Podcasts. The show is produced by Western Sound. Our
producer is Sabrina Fang. The show is edited by Savannah Wright.
Our associate producer is Sarah Dilley. Alex McInnis is our engineer,
and Ben Adair is the executive producer.
Speaker 1 (35:54):
Executive producers at iHeart Podcasts are Katrina Norvel and Niki Eatore.
Got import from LinkedIn's Jesse Hemple, Sarah Storm and Ayana Angel.
Maya Pope Chappelle is director of Content, Dave Pond is
Head of News Production, Courtney Coop is head of Original Programming,
and Dan Roth is the editor in chief of LinkedIn
LinkedIn News. I had just moved to New York and
then a layoff happened and I was like, oh crap,
I can't get a job. What is it for me?
I called up my mom. I was like, I'm going
to come back to DC. She was like, I will
help you, you know, pay your rent if you need it,
I will help you, but I am not going to
(00:22):
allow you to come back here. You you have something
that you need to do in New York. And Mommy,
if you're listening to this episode, from the bottom of
my heart, oh my god, I'm gonna get teary eyed,
but like it, I am so thankful because she's knew
that if I had given up on that dream, then like,
had I moved back home to DC, I wouldn't be
here with you. I wouldn't be on LinkedIn. There's so
many things that would be different in my life.
Speaker 2 (00:44):
From LinkedIn News and I heard podcasts.
Speaker 3 (00:47):
This is Let's Talk Offline, a show about what it
takes to thrive in the early years of your career
without sacrificing your values, sanity or sleep.
Speaker 2 (00:55):
I'm Gianna Prdente and.
Speaker 1 (00:57):
I'm Jamaie Jackson Gadsden. So guys, today we're going to
be talking about something that's kind of uncomfortable and it's
also scary. Layoffs. They're unexpected and they're super anxiety inducing,
and I mean, honestly, we hope you never have to
experience one in your career, but your work bestie Jamay
is going to tell you if someone who has gone
through four that the reality is we've seen a lot
(01:18):
of layoffs these past few years, and they've also hit
many different industries.
Speaker 3 (01:23):
It really is rough out there and super scary to
know that an employer can kind of just drop you
on a dime. Layoffs can feel out of your control,
and that's because they largely are. But what you can
do is be prepared. That's what we're going to talk
about today. We're gonna help you deal with the uncertainty
of possibly getting laid off and share what to do
if it actually happens.
Speaker 1 (01:50):
So I know a lot of you guys have probably
seen on social media that people are posting their layoff
stories more and more. It's really interesting because I remember
time when we weren't talking about layoffs so publicly, and
I would just say, over the last couple of years,
in particular, I've been seeing a lot of people share
their stories, some even going as far as recording the
(02:10):
actual moment they get laid off and posting it online. Now,
there's been a lot of layoffs in different industries over
the years, and I know how daunting and scary that
can feel. But it's been really also nice to see
how people are talking about it in such an open way.
I think what it's doing is it's allowing for a
lot of community and support and also for you to
(02:31):
just understand this is not just the me thing, like
I am in this shared experience with other people. So Gion,
I want to ask you, like, have you ever gone
through a layoff?
Speaker 3 (02:42):
So I've never been laid off myself, but now being
three years into my career, I've experienced the past, you know,
two years of all of those layoffs that were happening
across industries, and they happen at LinkedIn, and that was
when I was like, Okay, wow, this is really hitting
close to home. Obviously, there's a lot of anxiety when
(03:02):
it comes to layoffs. You hear chatter online. I mean
there's like a lot of websites for people who work
in tech and people are commenting, you know, I think
layoffs are happening, and it just I'm on those apps,
so listen, I'm not because it was just creating more anxiety.
So when layoffs happened, people were like, oh, how did
you not anticipate this?
Speaker 2 (03:18):
And I'm like, I'm not on those sites, like I can't,
I can't.
Speaker 3 (03:22):
So you know, it just creates a lot of anxiety.
And I remember when layoffs were happening at our company,
I had just moved out and I remember sitting in
my apartment reading that email, thinking, crap, what if I'm next? Right,
because you feel so out of the know, and it
can feel sometimes super out of the blue, and it
(03:42):
affects the entire you know, vibe of the team and
the larger company, right, and then just that general anxiety
of are there going to be more?
Speaker 2 (03:51):
Is it going to be me next? And I think
for me it was.
Speaker 3 (03:55):
A real wake up call of like, Okay, things can
change on a dime, So you need to.
Speaker 2 (04:00):
Be proactive with your work.
Speaker 3 (04:02):
If something's not working, don't wait for someone to tell you.
Speaker 2 (04:04):
You got to shift it yourself.
Speaker 1 (04:06):
Yeah, I totally agree. I think something that a lot
of people don't talk about when it comes to layoffs
is survivor's guilt, which is what you me so many
people experience right where you are not impacted by the layoff,
but you feel so guilty because now you're asking yourself, well,
why was this person? You know, these are some of
your friends or your colleagues, people who have been in
companies for a long time, right, and there's just all
(04:29):
these questions. And the truth of the matter is there
are more questions than answers usually. Now for me, I
have been on the other side of this.
Speaker 4 (04:37):
I have.
Speaker 1 (04:39):
Survived for layoffs, and I've also been impacked by one.
And the one that I was impacted by hurt the
worst because I had just moved to New York and
I had actually just moved out of my friend's apartment
into my own spot with roommates. So I was feeling like, oh, yes,
I'm a big girl now, like I can you know,
I'm paying rent, utilities, all the things, and like I
(05:00):
my own room. And then a layoff happened and I
was like, oh crap, and I was out of work
for over six months. Now. I had a really great
severance package that essentially paid for like six months worth,
so it was nice, you know, I think for me.
I first got in there and I was trying to
get a job immediately right, and then I realized, oh,
(05:20):
this is harder than I thought. And around month one
then the depression kicks in because now I'm like, holy crap,
I've moved to New York. I can't get a job.
What is it for me? I called up my mom.
I was like, I'm going to come back to DC.
Like by month two, I was over it. She was like,
I will help you, you know, pay your rent if
you need it, I will help you, but I am
(05:41):
not going to allow you to come back here. You
have something that you need to do in New York.
And Mommy, if you're listening to this episode from the
bottom of my heart, oh my god, I'm gonna get teary.
Speaker 5 (05:51):
I but like it.
Speaker 1 (05:52):
I am so thankful because she's knew that if I
had given up on that dream then So I say
all of that because a moment, momentary circumstance doesn't dictate
your future. Right Like, had I moved back home to DC,
I wouldn't be here with you, I wouldn't be at LinkedIn.
There's so many things that would be different in my life.
But the layoffs that I survived are also difficult. One
(06:12):
the survivor's guilt that I talked about. Two. Usually when
you have a reduction in workforce, and if a layoff
is the reason why, it's not like they're immediately backfilling
those roles. So you put a lot of pressure then
on the people who are left.
Speaker 3 (06:26):
Yeah, and we saw that especially over the past few years,
because a lot of the layups were due to budget
cuts exactly.
Speaker 1 (06:32):
And then you also have issues where like if a
particular industry is being impacted, now you're getting droves of people,
Like it's wild to me sometimes when I'm talking to
my friends who particularly don't work in tech, because in
their minds, they're not processing, Oh, all these tech companies
have essentially over hired right after the pandemic, and they're
like they can't conceptualize it. Whereas we're hearing ten, fifteen,
(06:55):
thirty thousand people getting laid off, and then you're worried
because you're like, oh, gosh, now all those people out
in the job market, and so like, now you know
for every job there's.
Speaker 2 (07:04):
Five thousand competition.
Speaker 1 (07:06):
Yeah, And so I would definitely say like surviving layoffs
has not been easy, but I think for me, what
helped me get through the one, particularly with our company,
was I had been through so many I knew how
this was going to play out right, Like it's almost
like a rinse and repeat. I know how this is
about to feel. I know how this is about to go.
I know the space that we're going to have to
hold for other people. So again, layoffs are not easy
(07:31):
for anyone out there who's been impacted. My heart goes out.
I know what it feels like. But take it from
your work bestiage. You may you will get through this.
You will survive this. I hope this episode is going
to be helpful for you, and also do see that
this could also be a positive redirection that pushes you
into something even bigger, better, in something that will blow
(07:51):
your mind.
Speaker 3 (07:52):
I appreciate that perspective because as somebody who is early
in my career and hasn't experience that personally being laid off.
I mean, my voice literally just quivers thinking about that
happening to me. And like I was saying earlier, when
layoffs hit the company, I thought, holy crap, am my next?
And it really did get me thinking, you know, what
(08:13):
would I do if this was me? And especially around
that time, there were so many headlines around layoffs, like
you couldn't ignore it, And so I started thinking, and
I hadn't given you know, enough thought to it, probably,
but I started thinking, you know, what would I do?
Because honestly, like, if I'm being transparent, my initial reaction
would be like to freak the heck out, Like I
(08:34):
would freak out, like I would have a full blown
panic attack. And I mean, you don't have a salary anymore,
and you have expenses, and that's so terrifying. And I
think what's so unsettling about, you know, being in an
atmosphere of layoffs is like people are having conversations about
you when you're not in that room, and that is
(08:55):
such a horrible, unsettling feeling. So yeah, yeah, I think,
you know, if you're early in your career and you're
listening to this and you haven't been laid off and
you feel this way too, you know, like, what would
I do if that is an experience that I have?
Speaker 2 (09:09):
At some point?
Speaker 3 (09:10):
We're going to talk today about the steps that you
can take to kind of create a plan, because listen,
I need one, you need one, So hopefully we can
figure this.
Speaker 2 (09:18):
All out together.
Speaker 1 (09:22):
All this layoff talk makes me nervous, But what helps
is having a strategy coming up. We're going to talk
about the things you should consider. I'm putting together your
layoff plan. All right, guys, So we are back and
(09:43):
we are going to be talking about how to deal
with the anxiety of possibly getting laid off, as well
as what to do if you actually are. Now the
reality is, when it comes to layoffs, the first thing
you're probably going to experience is layoff anxiety, and that's
the feeling of uncertainty and at the thought of possibly
getting laid off. It doesn't even have to actually have
(10:03):
happened yet, it's the fear of it.
Speaker 2 (10:05):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (10:06):
Maybe you know you're starting to hear rumors about possible layoffs,
or your company isn't doing well financially, so you're thinking, okay,
are cuts coming? Maybe they already have started doing layoffs
and you're wondering, okay, am I next that layoff anxiety
can really affect the overall work environment and the morale
of the team, but also your work. Right, it's really
(10:28):
hard to focus when you're concerned that your job isn't safe.
And we all have the right to feel scared during
such an uncertain time. So, Jimmie, I'm wondering from you,
as somebody who's experienced for layoffs in your career, how
have you dealt with that anxiety of potentially being laid off.
Speaker 1 (10:45):
Yeah, there's a couple of things that I would recommend.
First of all, lean on your community and your network.
One thing that a friend of mine told me years
ago was that she, having worked in HR, would be
in rooms with people and when it was time for layoffs.
Sometimes the one thing that separated a candidate being laid
off and not is the rapport that that candidate may
(11:06):
have had with their team. So if you are someone
who comes in you do great work, you have, you know,
sown seeds across the company. People can attest to your.
Speaker 2 (11:16):
Characters seeds like.
Speaker 1 (11:22):
Some sunlight on them, don't kill them. Now, I don't
have a green thumb, but like, sometimes it would be
that small right, And so obviously that doesn't apply for
every opportunity, that doesn't apply for every layoff. But I
have always carried that with me, that your community will
rally for you, and your community will show up. So
lean on your community and network. I mean, especially if
(11:44):
you can start to read the tea leaves and it's
starting to show something weird. Make sure you are connecting
with those coworkers, your mentors, your family, your friends, set
up those informationals right, start acting as if you were
already looking for another job. You don't have to go
as hard as if you are. But you can always
operate in a season of networking. And yeah, definitely always
(12:09):
getting laid off is not an uncommon experience, and so
more than likely you are going to probably also find
people who are gonna talk, who are gonna also share
their layoff stories. Another thing that I think is super
important is like thinking about that post layoff game plan.
Do you need to sit down and you need to
come up with some type of plan. Okay, this is
gonna help you feel sure. This is when all of
my structured girlies come to the front. Okay, because this
(12:32):
is when you can be doing things like updating your resume, obviously,
updating your LinkedIn right, sharing your portfolio, writing up your skills,
looking and researching what resources are readily available to you.
So this is gonna help set you up so that
even if you are faced with the possibility of getting
laid off, you know that if that happens, you are
in a position where you have everything you need another thing,
(12:56):
go and get those recommendations. You know, we always love
to hit somebody up after we're like hey, big hey,
can you like be like someone who like if they
call you, like, be like how you said earlier, be
on the offense. Gather those things up as you can.
And then the last thing I would just say is like,
know how to tune out the noise For me, I
(13:16):
love to journal, I love to create vision manifestation boards. Right,
do something that makes you not focus so much on
what the apps are saying, right, because you will. You
will fake news, right, You will literally like gaslight yourself
into an anxiety attack. Like you don't need.
Speaker 2 (13:33):
That, Yeah, exactly, Like.
Speaker 1 (13:35):
If it's gonna happen, it's gonna happen. You stressing out
and looking every single day looking at the calendar seeing
like it's today d day, Like no, it's not to
go work, So like just focus on what you can
do and prepare yourself with your community.
Speaker 3 (13:47):
And I want to add something that I appreciated when
we had Jeanine Dolne on the show talking about side
hustles a few episodes back, So make sure you guys
listen to that if you haven't already. But she talked
about being laid off and how kind of was the
turning point for her to go full time into content creation.
And I feel like with gen Z being a generation
that has so openly embraced side hustles, it's a time
(14:09):
to really focus.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
On that other work, that side gig.
Speaker 3 (14:13):
Right, So, like, if you're somebody who has a side
hustle or has a hobby that is important to you,
focus your efforts there and your energy there because that
could potentially be something that you can fall back on
if you know you are laid off.
Speaker 1 (14:27):
Yeah, and now you have the time, right, you have
the time, maybe you have the resources, especially if you've
gotten like a severance package, like go all in on
your dream because you never know where that can go.
Speaker 3 (14:38):
Yeah, And I think also it's like a reminder that
there's life outside of work, and there's other things you know,
to put your energy toward that can be a little
bit of an escape. Okay, So now let's say unfortunately
the layoff happens and you're impacted. We're going to walk
you through what to do, the steps you should take listen.
Being on the jobs and career development beat for early careers,
(14:59):
I've been so thrown into content around layoffs. The biggest
thing has been this idea of pausing. I mentioned if
I were to be laid off, I would panic freak out.
I would probably transparently panic apply. That's not the most
effective way to start job surging. So this idea of like, first,
take a breath, take a beat. It can feel really
(15:21):
overwhelming when you get laid off, and you know, feel
those feelings, right like, take a second and grieve. Honestly,
you know, I feel very closely tied to the company
where I currently work, in passionate about my work. So
I would literally have to like grieve losing the job
and also be kind to yourself, you know, give yourself
some space to acknowledge what has happened, protect your mental health,
(15:45):
do what you need to do so that you are
then ready to start looking for jobs. And also remember
during this time that layoffs are not a reflection of
your skills, your experience, your talents, right like. Unfortunately, a
lot of times like are just a consequence of unfortunate circumstances.
What's happening in the economy and it's not a reflection
(16:05):
of your worth, So keep your head up, don't let
it knock your confidence, and then it's time to start,
you know, looking at those resources and start job searching.
Speaker 1 (16:13):
Yeah. I really appreciate you sharing that, g because I
think we always have to remember that, like, at the
end of the day, these are corporations that we do
work for, but like you also need to take a
step back, take a pause, and remember that your worth
is not attached to your work. So let's also talk
about resources. Though. The first thing that I would definitely
recommend is navigating government assistance. Y'all. I really want to
(16:34):
make sure you are listening for this part, okay, because
this is so important and these are mistakes that I
made the first time I got laid off. There's a
lot of government resources that you can rely on if
you're laid off.
Speaker 2 (16:44):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (16:44):
The biggest one unemployment insurance. Okay. Each state is gonna
have their own requirements, so you're gonna definitely have to
make sure you check that out in the qualification criteria.
But please look into applying. No matter what, a lot
of people will be like, oh no, I'm a find
another job, baby, apply, Okay, just make sure that you
cover yourself. Links to all of that is also going
(17:04):
to be in the show description, so make sure you
guys check that out.
Speaker 2 (17:07):
Wait, so I have a good question on that.
Speaker 3 (17:08):
Can you still apply for unemployment insurance if you're getting
severance from your company?
Speaker 1 (17:12):
Great question. So it actually depends on the state, which
is why everyone's going to need to make sure that
they check out the criteria.
Speaker 2 (17:18):
Gotcha.
Speaker 1 (17:19):
Yeah, So the government will actually offer you a stipend
for the number of weeks depending on your state while
you look for another job, which is always great. Another
thing to look into is health insurance. Now, look, y'all,
I used to be twenty three once before, ok two,
I thought I was inevitably gonna stay young forever. And
then I cracked my knee. And then I'm like, what
(17:39):
my knees crack in the morning? Now, okay, wait, I
know what age?
Speaker 2 (17:43):
Were your knees cracking like this?
Speaker 1 (17:45):
I have never had strong kneed? Can Meg the Stallion
have never been the same person. But I say all
of that to say that health insurance matters.
Speaker 4 (17:53):
Right.
Speaker 1 (17:53):
You do not want to be out here without health insurance.
And then something comes up, So applying for health insurance
is all going to vary by state. You know, you
have a lot of common options, including Cobra, which a
lot of people have heard about, or you can even
shop the healthcare dot gov marketplace. One thing that I
will definitely emphasize here is more than likely when you
(18:14):
are let go, you will have a conversation with HR.
Usually it either might be with HR or it might
be your manager. It depends also on the company size
and how many people they have to get through. If
you have the opportunity to talk to HR directly ask
them questions. In that moment, you are going to probably
want to stop thinking, you're going to zone out, You're
going to dissociate, right. You need to stay present and
(18:37):
in the moment and level headed and ask the questions
because your HR professional is going to be able to
tell you where to look and even how much longer
you have health insurance for right.
Speaker 3 (18:49):
Yeah, that's such an important call out. And I feel
like when you were talking before about your layoff game
plan to start when you're crafting that during that anxiety period,
you should write out the question that you would ask,
because I'm sure during that conversation your mind goes blank.
Speaker 2 (19:04):
So prepare those questions ahead of time.
Speaker 1 (19:05):
Yes, and then lastly, I'll say look into subsidize training programs.
I think that when you are not working, that is
a great time for you to start upskilling and like
learning other things. This might be a time where, for instance,
if you want to break into tech, taking a coding
class or learning what SEQL queries are, there are a
(19:28):
lot of training programs that offer it subsidized, which means
like you know, maybe like pro rated or discount of
depending on how much you make. And you might even
be able to find programs that help you develop new
skills or improve the ones you already have. Also, you
might work for a company that offers that. You know,
I have worked at other companies where a certain period
of months after you've been laid off, they will help
(19:49):
you search for another job right or send you resources.
So again, these are questions you can ask HR, but
also include that in your game plan of this as
to things that you should follow up on, because this
is the important stuff. Guys like I know we're gonna
want to be sad girls, and we can be okay,
g and I are not telling you can't. We want
to be proactive sad girls.
Speaker 3 (20:09):
Okay, I want to bring up a question from one
of our listeners. This is our segment Dear Work Bestie,
where we answer your questions. This week's comes from nine
in New York.
Speaker 5 (20:19):
I love to know how soon are you supposed to
start looking after a layoff? Obviously it depends on each
person's situation, but would love some general guidelines. Also, how
do you offer support to colleagues who are laid off
when you weren't affected yourself, even to those that you
weren't that close to.
Speaker 3 (20:36):
This is such a great question, and I feel like
one that a lot of people have is when do
I start job searching? And like I said before, panic
applying is not the most effective strategy, but understandably so
some people have to start applying immediately. In general, I
think that brief pause is still important, even if it's
just you know, a few minutes, like just take a
(20:58):
second to breathe and okay, what is my next step?
When you decide to start looking for a job is
of course going to be dependent on your financial situation.
So if you're receiving severance after getting laid off, or
have a lot of savings, maybe you don't need to
jump into that job search right away and you can
take a break, But maybe you don't have you know,
the financial backing to be able to afford that break,
(21:21):
so you have to start looking for a job immediately.
Either way, evaluating your finances is a really good starting
point that will help you figure out when do I
need to start looking for a job. Another thing to consider,
which is why I think this pause period is so important,
is maybe this, you know, layoff is a chance for
you to pivot right We've seen that a lot over
(21:43):
the last few years. Workers are getting laid off in
one industry and finding jobs in another. So it's your
opportunity to decide is this the right career path for me?
Looking back on your work history or looking back on
just that previous job, thinking what did I like about this,
what did I not like? And how does that inform
what I want in a future opportunity? And maybe that
(22:03):
means like I want to go to a whole new
industry right like I don't even want to stay in
this role anymore.
Speaker 1 (22:08):
Let me just add to that, g that that is
such an important thing for you to ask yourself. That
is exactly what I did when when I kept getting
impacted by layoffs in media, particularly in journalism. I was like,
I love this so much, but I need something with
a little bit more security.
Speaker 6 (22:25):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (22:25):
I was like, I can't do this, and asking yourself
that question might actually save you a lot of heartache
down the future. I was able to pivot and I
get the best of both worlds now.
Speaker 3 (22:34):
Yeah, and that's part of it too, Like, even if
you personally don't want to maybe pivot, you might think
for my career and whatever my goals are, it might
be best for me to, you know, find a more
stable path.
Speaker 2 (22:44):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (22:45):
And then of course, once you start applying and you're
going through the interview process, you are going to be
asked what happened if let's say it's a shorter stint
on your resume. So let's say you were at a
company for a year or so or less than that
and you were laid off. You know, the good news
is that companies now don't look at getting laid off
as a red flag. It's unfortunately become so common that
(23:06):
it's not, you know, something that's going to stand out
too much on your resume, especially in this job market.
You know, you just have to say, unfortunately, I was
laid off. And if you decided to take let's say
a few months off in between your job and finding
a new ones you have a break. You can explain
the situation to you know, the potential employer by saying,
(23:27):
you know why you decided to take that break, and
what you learned during it, what did you gain from it,
what clarity did that give you? And during that time,
you know, did you take advantage of you know, upscilling
programs and keeping your skills fresh. Just keep it short, simple,
and answer honestly.
Speaker 1 (23:41):
Yeah. Okay. So going back to NIC's question on how
to offer support to colleagues who have been laid off.
So the first thing I think is important is to
reassure them that a layoff again does not reflect their
competency or talent. And you can do that by acknowledging
all the work that they've done, I mean, all the
work that they've done to help you, all the work
they've done to help the company, or even what you
(24:01):
appreciate about them as a coworker. Next, and this is
super important, take a step back and listen. Everybody is
so quick to offer advice and it pisses me. Yeah,
it pisses me off.
Speaker 2 (24:14):
Only because you don't like unsolicited advice.
Speaker 1 (24:18):
Unknowing, you know, Gianna, I love it as much as
I love yapping.
Speaker 2 (24:24):
It all comes.
Speaker 1 (24:26):
Yapping. But I think that, like sometimes we forget that
when someone is grieving, because this is grief. Sometimes you
just need to offer a space to listen. And maybe
in that moment they're not in the right heart posture
to receive feedback yet or advice. Maybe they just need
to be angry, maybe they just need to grieve, Maybe
(24:48):
they just need to be sad, maybe they need to
go through all their emotions. Be there to listen, don't
be quick to offer advice or ask what their next
steps are. Be there as a supportive person. But then
when you do get asked for advice, make sure that
it is specific and actionable. It can be something as
simple as if you ever need a talk, I'm here,
(25:10):
or let's say, for instance, you are a really great writer,
help your friends craft their about me section on LinkedIn right,
help people review their resumes, like utilize your network and resources.
But make sure that it is specific versus being just general,
which really can almost help nobody. And I would just say,
like that helps take the pressure off of that person
(25:31):
without having to figure out like how they can lean
on you. But then it also kind of helps them
feel a little less overwhelmed because they know they have community.
So if you're going to offer, be specific.
Speaker 3 (25:42):
Yeah, and it's just one less thing for them to
have to think about exactly.
Speaker 5 (25:46):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (25:46):
Okay, So guys, look, I know this is a lot
of information. I know we have thrown so much at
you today, but again, there's going to be a ton
of resources down in the show description, so definitely make
sure you check the show description. And if you need
more advice on how to handle layoffs, one of our
own LinkedIn editors, Andrew Semen, has a great podcast called
(26:08):
get Hired with tons of amazing tips on how to
navigate job lost, so definitely make sure you check that
out as well. Lastly, if you've been laid off and
you want to share your experience, comment in this week's
newsletter or even create a post and at Gianna and me,
we would love to hear your stories. I mean, honestly,
I hope that some of the tips that gian and
I were able to share today will help you actually
(26:29):
prepare for this a little bit more. But listen to
me when I say this, you are not at the
mercy of what happens to you. You can be proactive
and prepared in the event you are ever impacted by
a layoff.
Speaker 3 (26:44):
Layoffs are definitely scary, but just know that you've got
this and we've got your back up.
Speaker 2 (26:50):
Next.
Speaker 3 (26:50):
Do you know one word that makes me nervous?
Speaker 2 (26:53):
Hey? That's it.
Speaker 3 (26:55):
Just Hey, we're gonna talk about why after the break.
Speaker 1 (27:07):
So normally we close out our show sharing our like
final takeaways, but I want to change it up a
little bit this week, and Gianna, I want to put
the spotlight on you. Okay, you started off the episode
talking about how you've never been directly impacted by a layoffs.
You've seen colleagues get impacted and what that did for you,
and you are in a position I think a lot
(27:27):
of other people in their early career are right, which
is like, you've heard of layoffs, you've seen them play
out on social media. You kind of always have this
little fear that it's going to come knocking on your door.
I want to know after today and all the things
that we've discussed, like, what are some of the takeaways
that you are taking, What is your game plan? What
is the Giona game plan.
Speaker 2 (27:47):
Oh God in the hot seat for this now.
Speaker 3 (27:51):
You know. I think the biggest thing that I'm taking
away from our conversation is that layoffs are something that
so many people experience, so you are not alone in that.
I feel like that's very comforting to know. I do,
you know, admittedly think that it would hurt a lot,
but I think this conversation has really shown me the
(28:11):
importance of having a game plan. You know, I've clearly
given some thought to this, but I don't have anything.
Speaker 2 (28:16):
Like actually fleshed out. And he just said, my resume
is collecting us right now.
Speaker 3 (28:24):
So I think that's a really good first step, is
assessing my resume, just making sure that I'm updating that
so it's not just a huge task, and also making
sure that I have a good outlook on my finances
and understanding of my financial landscape.
Speaker 2 (28:38):
So yeah, I think those are my takeaways.
Speaker 1 (28:41):
I appreciate that. And I think what you were saying
about being prepared and having a game plan does not
mean that you are ready to leave your job right
Like people start saying, oh, let me brush up the resume,
Like wait, you get to own your career and that
is so important. Yeah, all right, this has been a
pretty heavy episode. I get it. So let's even mood
a little bit. You know, let's get a little comfortable.
(29:04):
We are gonna do cringe. Are cool?
Speaker 7 (29:06):
Oh?
Speaker 1 (29:06):
I love this.
Speaker 2 (29:07):
That's when we get to.
Speaker 1 (29:07):
Talk about things like workplace trends, things that are happening
in the workforce out in the world, and Gian and
I get to put our gen z and millennial minds
and we get to discuss is it cringe or is
it cool? Now I'm a little nervous. I'm already cringing
a little bit because I have no idea what we're
talking about this week.
Speaker 2 (29:23):
Okay, I feel like I already know. Every time I say,
I'm like, I know what you're gonna think.
Speaker 3 (29:27):
But okay, this week we're talking about hey, hanging hey.
Speaker 1 (29:32):
Like for h y Okay. I was gonna say, for
a cow do cows?
Speaker 2 (29:36):
Oh No, not like hey like enang okay? Hey, Hey.
Speaker 3 (29:39):
So this means, okay, I'll give you a scenario to
help you understand. So let's say, for instance, I'm messaging
on Slack. I just say hey, that's it, and I
wait for you to reply before I tell you why
I'm messaging you, which maybe for you and I are dynamic.
Speaker 2 (29:56):
You know, you might not be like, oh god, what
is it?
Speaker 3 (29:59):
But for somebody who maybe has a bit more influence
if they message you in that way, or your manager
or you know in general, right, Like it's hey, Haying,
and it can cause a lot of anxiety because it's
like what does this person want?
Speaker 2 (30:11):
What is coming next? I am scared?
Speaker 3 (30:13):
And once you answer, you're like, Okay, they know them around.
I got to answer their next thing quick. So what
is it so scary?
Speaker 2 (30:21):
So what do you think, Hey Haying.
Speaker 1 (30:22):
I'm not answering.
Speaker 2 (30:23):
Here're done?
Speaker 1 (30:24):
No, because what are we doing?
Speaker 2 (30:26):
Like no, I don't like it?
Speaker 1 (30:27):
No, what are you doing?
Speaker 2 (30:28):
Yeah?
Speaker 1 (30:29):
Like if you had enough time to write, hey, you
could have at least given me like a like a
quick trailer, something like a five word like.
Speaker 2 (30:36):
What a little prevow?
Speaker 8 (30:38):
Yeah?
Speaker 1 (30:38):
I don't like that. No, yeah no, But see, the
thing is like, because my anxiety would actually spike because
I'm just like what and that has actually happened to
me before. It was senior leadership Like they do that
and then like I don't hear anything. I go into
a meeting again, in the middle of a meeting, then
they're like hey, send me five examples of this, Like
right now I'm talking to like the senior CEO of
(30:58):
like well, and I'm like what that's eye twitches like no, no, please, yeah, please,
I do not I but you know what when whenever
that happens, I try to remember, like certain people that's
how they communicate. But I would say I think the
anxiety comes from it being in a work environment. If
(31:20):
you are the person who does that, just kind of
like give people a little teaser, a little sound bite,
a little send a voice not you know, gion and
I love the voice. That would be great or even
just like a quick like hey do you have blah
blah blah blah insert And also when you do that,
add a deadline. Oh god, this is add a dead.
Speaker 3 (31:40):
Oh my gosh no, because when you are ever messaging today,
you got rules to follow.
Speaker 1 (31:45):
I need I need an eta of like when you
need this buy because everything is gonna feel like a
level ten priority. But like you just saying hey makes
it feel so casual. No, I don't like it.
Speaker 3 (31:54):
Yeah, I am like so not here for it because
it gives me so much anxiety of like what's coming next.
Speaker 2 (32:01):
I'm the person that.
Speaker 3 (32:02):
I'm like, so opposite of hay Hanging, I will like literally.
Speaker 2 (32:07):
Type out a whole novel to you.
Speaker 3 (32:09):
I will be like, hey, like whatever, whole novel of
everything I need.
Speaker 2 (32:13):
It's all going in one message, to.
Speaker 3 (32:15):
The point where like my manager has been like, wow,
you had that message ready?
Speaker 1 (32:18):
Yeah, prescript it.
Speaker 2 (32:20):
I do.
Speaker 9 (32:21):
Sometimes I Oh my god, you guys are gonna think
I'm clinically insane, which I am. I mean, but I
will like message like, I will type out the message
also to myself in slack first, because I don't want
people to see.
Speaker 2 (32:32):
Like I'm typing for so long? Is that crazy?
Speaker 1 (32:35):
Actually I do the same thing. Okay, I write it
in my notes app yeah, and then yeah I haven't
read Yeah. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (32:41):
Let us know. What do you guys think about hay Hanging?
Are you a hay Hanger? Why are You'll just.
Speaker 1 (32:48):
Message us and they just say hey, and that's their response.
If we don't, I'm not I'm sorry, just kidding gian
and I will answer because we love you all. Okay, guys,
this has been immedy episode, but I hope that you
guys have been able to take away a lot of
actionable tips that you feel empowered by. Thank you guys
so much for listening.
Speaker 3 (33:08):
Yes, thank you guys, and make sure if you're not
already following our newsletter, Let's Talk Offline, where we go
even deeper into the topics we discuss on the pod.
You can share all your takes for our segments like
cringer cool, if you're hanging, or all the things. You
can find the link in the show description and it's
also in my LinkedIn bio.
Speaker 2 (33:26):
It's called you Guessed it.
Speaker 1 (33:28):
Let's Talk Offline.
Speaker 2 (33:31):
I like it stunning now.
Speaker 1 (33:32):
Also, I'm gonna give a huge shout out Tony for
sending in their question. I I know that that was
probably a hard question to ask. We appreciate it. We
want you all to know that you also have a
friend in us. You can send us your questions. Okay,
information on hab you that is also in the show description.
Speaker 3 (33:48):
One last thing, make sure you guys rate and follow
the show wherever you like to listen. I'm a Spotify girly,
what are you doing?
Speaker 9 (33:55):
I'm Apple podcast, but I do love a Spotify love
all right, And before you guys, thank you.
Speaker 3 (34:00):
Remember Jimmy and I've always got your back. So if
something comes up in the meantime, let's talk offline.
Speaker 2 (34:06):
I'm Jianna Prudenti.
Speaker 1 (34:07):
And I'm Jamaie Jackson Gadson Gollop. Before you go, we're
going to end the show a little differently. Today we
ask listeners who've experienced layoffs to share their messages of support,
and we got an overwhelming response. Job loss is such
a common experience nowadays, so if you're going through it,
it helps to know you're not alone. So stick around
(34:28):
and I hope you enjoy.
Speaker 7 (34:35):
Hey, So I actually got laid off, not once, but twice,
and I have to say, if you've recently gotten laid off,
that's not where you were meant to be and it's tough,
but it'll be so much better one way or another.
You'll be grateful this happened to you. And that's what
happened to me.
Speaker 4 (34:52):
I've changed careers multiple times, and I've also been laid
off various times for reasons outside of my control. Always
have found that my network in my community get me
to the next place, and I always find something bigger
and better. Hi.
Speaker 8 (35:07):
I was laid off in twenty twenty three, and a
few months after I started my own business for those
laid off recently. This might be a low point. So
whatever your next move will be, be bold, whether it
be finding your next job or starting your own business,
say strong and you got this.
Speaker 6 (35:23):
Being laid off can be scary due to the uncertainty,
but you will be okay. Sometimes the best things come
from in certain situations, So take a moment and breathe.
Great things take time, and you will be okay.
Speaker 3 (35:38):
Let's Talk offline as a production of LinkedIn News and
iHeart Podcasts. The show is produced by Western Sound. Our
producer is Sabrina Fang. The show is edited by Savannah Wright.
Our associate producer is Sarah Dilley. Alex McInnis is our engineer,
and Ben Adair is the executive producer.
Speaker 1 (35:54):
Executive producers at iHeart Podcasts are Katrina Norvel and Niki Eatore.
Got import from LinkedIn's Jesse Hemple, Sarah Storm and Ayana Angel.
Maya Pope Chappelle is director of Content, Dave Pond is
Head of News Production, Courtney Coop is head of Original Programming,
and Dan Roth is the editor in chief of LinkedIn
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