Does your mind go blank upon receiving a layoff notice? Feeling lost, angry, resentful, or even doubting yourself--these are all normal psychological reactions. Please remember that a layoff often has nothing to do with your personal abilities but is a business decision made by the company.
Most importantly, do not let negative emotions overwhelm you. First, take a deep breath, and then try to follow the five steps below to help yourself get back on your feet, step by step, and start anew.
Step 1: Process Your Emotions and Give Yourself Time to Settle
Suddenly losing your job is undoubtedly a psychological shock. Now is not the time to rush and pretend everything is fine; you should give yourself a day or two to process and settle. Talk to trusted family or friends, or engage in relaxing activities like hiking, exercising, or watching a movie. Only after managing your mood will you have the energy to take the next step.
Remember: Rest is necessary to go the distance. Taking proper care of your emotions is the top priority.
Step 2: Take Stock of Your Finances and Create an Emergency Budget
The key to steadying your nerves is to clearly understand your financial situation. You should immediately check if the calculations for your severance pay, long-service payment, and payment in lieu of notice from the company are accurate. Next, take stock of your savings and emergency funds and create an "emergency budget." List your necessary expenses for the next few months (like rent, food, and transportation) and cut back on non-essential spending as much as possible.
Tip: Understand the arrangements for your Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) and check your eligibility for relevant government assistance.
Step 3: Update Your Resume and Organize Your Portfolio
When you feel more emotionally stable, you can begin preparing for your next job. Update your resume (CV) with your most recent work experience and highlight your achievements and contributions--it's best to quantify your results with numbers. If your profession requires it, start organizing your personal portfolio to showcase your best work.
Key takeaway: A resume is not just a record of "what you did," but a highlight of “what you achieved.”
Step 4: Leverage Your Network and Expand Your Connections
Don't allow yourself to become isolated. You can update your profile on platforms like LinkedIn to let your network know that you are seeking new job opportunities. Proactively reach out to former colleagues or supervisors; you don't need to ask for a job referral directly. You can first arrange a meeting to understand the current market situation, and an opportunity may arise from there.
Tip: Reach out proactively but maintain a casual attitude. The goal is to build connections and gather information.
Step 5: Seize the Gap Period for Learning and Self-Improvement
This downtime is, in fact, a rare opportunity for self-improvement. Is there a skill you have always wanted to learn but never had the time for? Now is the perfect time. You can enroll in online or physical courses, learn various productivity tools on AI platforms, earn a professional license, get a driver's license, or join a government-funded retraining program. Use this time to boost your competitiveness and prepare for your next job.
Mindset Shift: Reframe the "period of unemployment" as a "period of growth" and a “period for exploring a career change.”
Being laid off is not the end of the world; rather, it is an opportunity that prompts you to pause and reassess your career direction. Believe in your worth. The closing of this door is so that a better window can be opened for you. Keep going! You can absolutely overcome this challenge.
