When you go through your first layoff, the instinct to panic is real. But what you need most in that moment is the exact opposite: calm. I gave myself the drive home—just 15 to 20 minutes—to process what had happened. That was all I allowed.
There were a few things I knew to be true. The company had recently reabsorbed a former spinoff that couldn’t sustain itself independently. They had also hired a third-party firm to evaluate the IT department and related functions, and three months had passed since that assessment, with no word from the C-suite about a path forward. I had already sensed something wasn’t right, but I believed things would work out.
In fact, I had even told a colleague I was keeping an eye on the job market. My gut told me I couldn’t fully trust the incoming senior leadership, especially after meeting the individual replacing my senior leadership. I thought I would have a choice about when to leave—but layoffs rarely care about your timing. Still, I knew that stewing over “why” wouldn’t help me land what’s next. I didn’t have time for self-pity or shame. Neither emotion was going to find me a new job.
Instead, I walked into my house, pulled out my contact list, and started calling. I let people know I was open to work and asked if they had any leads. This is where years of intentional networking paid off. I’ve always made it a point to keep in touch with former coworkers and mentors—checking in a few times a year, never burning bridges. That work mattered now.
With those calls made, I turned to my finances. I needed to understand what kind of runway I had. I reviewed my severance, my savings, and my expenses. I trimmed unnecessary spending and canceled subscriptions I didn’t need. I calculated how long I could comfortably search, and then I created Plan B and C—including the possibility of dipping into my 401(k) if I absolutely had to.
Getting that financial clarity gave me the one thing I needed most: time. Time to find the right fit. I started mapping out what I wanted in a new role—local would be great, similar pay ideal, keeping my lifestyle a bonus. But I also reminded myself of what I didn’t need. I’ve always considered adaptability one of my strengths. I wasn’t going to let this moment dull that edge.
So I broadened the search. If the right job meant moving? I’d move. If it meant starting a step lower and proving myself again? I’d do it. I was already looking forward to the change.
First step? Update the resume. Then get to work.
Four Lessons That Helped Me Regain Control:
- Stay calm. Give yourself a short window to process, but don’t linger there. Action moves you forward.
- Leverage your network. A well-maintained network is your most powerful tool in uncertain times.
- Understand your finances. Knowing your numbers helps you set realistic expectations and timelines.
- Have a Plan B (and C). Prepare for longer searches—it gives you flexibility and peace of mind.
NOCHAPA 