Take a peek at how the year has unfolded. It would be an understatement to say that workforce reductions are the utmost priority across private and government sectors. This Monday came Meta layoffs that went from bad to brutal, and it seems that aggressive job cuts in 2025 have only just begun. It’s not so rosy either across federal agencies in America. In a latest push to downsize, the administration has now asked agencies to “significantly reduce the size of the government,” and “limit hiring to essential positions”. If you’re reading this, you’ve probably been laid off recently and grappling with what comes next. So, what to do after federal layoff?
Life is hard sometimes. There’s no other way to put it. And life isn’t fair all the time. You’ll be dealt with an unexpected hand that makes you feel stagnant and hopeless. But it’s up to you to use your inner strength and keep pushing forward. And, if you’re unsure of what’s to happen tomorrow, then remember that the sun will come out again.
Nearly half of American have been through what you are experiencing right now. If you’re kind to yourself, you’ll be better able to focus on the practicalities of how to cope with federal layoffs.
Surviving Federal layoff
“You’re good enough.”
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, angry, or even question your self-worth. But it doesn’t mean that all your dreams have now been swept out from under your feet and derailed forever. Give yourself time to breathe and reevaluate what’s important to you and your career growth.
Emotional Aftershock
Shock, anger, sadness, and even relief are a normal range of emotions you’ll feel after a layoff. A lot of people immediately think of applying to a hundred different positions by the next day. You’ll only confuse yourself further if you rush right now. Take the time needed to recognize and process what you’re feeling as this will immensely help you during your self-healing journey.
But, is this what you need to do after a layoff? Yes, and yes.
The psychological effects of federal layoffs can be brutal. You may feel that you’re losing sense of control over your life. Find small tasks you can start and finish at your own pace. Maybe it’s the right time to start a new gardening project you always dreamt of! Or, even bake recipes you’ve pinned for long on your Pinterest board. It doesn’t have to be big. You can even reorganize your space.
The key is to focus on something small; something you can begin and end at your own pace. The goal is to allow yourself to feel accomplished and not question your worth. What you do isn’t always connected to how much money you earn every month. It’s more than money. Right now is the time to accept that it’s how you do things that makes you, you.
Finances
Next, money.
So many people have been where you are now. To many all of this is now a memory. If you learn to process the chaos in your head, you’ll also be able to identity your essential needs. First and foremost, your expenses. Create a revised budget to better manage your finances during this transition from one job to another. Make best use of available resources right now so you don’t have to worry about finances in the long run.
Plan a career regrowth
When ready, update your resume, relearn if you have the time to enhance your skills, and explore new job opportunities that truly excite you. Career recovery after federal layoffs isn’t always swift, but it doesn’t take too long if that’s what you are worried about right now.
Set small, achievable goals to ensure stable progress and restore a sense of control over your career.
Don’t isolate yourself
It’s natural to hibernate for weeks. We all need solitude to process things in life every now and then. But you must also take internal and external accountability to get out of your sweatpants and socialize with people who make you happy. A lot of times we underestimate the simplicity of meeting friends on a Friday night or a Sunday brunch. Go out, sit at a café, and read the newspaper. Say yes to things you otherwise wouldn’t have been able to do with a full-time job like going to afternoon yoga classes, going on coffee dates with your friends, or volunteering at a shelter. You never know which door may open and invite you to an adventure of a lifetime.
Getting External Accountability After A Layoff
Another strategy we recommend is bringing in a little external accountability after a layoff. When we’re in a tough spot, isolating or putting things off is easy. Text a friend and say, “I’m going to hibernate for the week, but I need you to check in with me on Friday.” Having someone on the outside who can help pull you back into the world when you’re ready can be really helpful. It’s not about pushing yourself too hard but ensuring you don’t get stuck in an emotional or physical rut.
Is this truly what you need to do after federal layoffs?
Yes, and no.
Truth be told, there’s no one right way to surviving a layoff. Everyone’s take on life priorities is different, and you cannot burden yourself to go the same route as others. Remember, you’re not alone in this.
Nearly half of American have been through what you are experiencing right now. If you’re kind to yourself, you’ll be better able to focus on the practicalities of how to cope with federal layoffs.
Final paycheck: Contact someone in HR to find out if you’re entitled to additional payment for sick leave, vacation days, and overtime you may have accrued over time. Knowing when to expect your final paycheck can help you better manage your budget until you figure out what you’d like to do next.
Severance: Severance refers to the pay and benefits you may receive upon being laid off. If you’ve worked for a company long enough, it’s likely you’ll be offered severance pay.
Insurance: You might still be eligible for health insurance. You can check with the HR of your health insurance status and options. You can also choose to inquire about it on your own or ask for clarification about your health insurance.
File for unemployment: If you meet certain requirements, you may be eligible for unemployment. These benefits can help you fulfil obligations such as bills after the layoff. The eligibility and length of the benefits depends on the state where you reside.
References: Consider asking for references or letters of recommendation from your manage or colleagues. It can be useful to have more than two references when applying for a job.
Update the resume: Now is the time to revise your resume based on the skills and experience you have gained over time. It can also be useful to add date and numbers to showcase your contributions as an employee.
You are enough
Losing a job is never easy. But understanding what to do after being laid off can help you regain a sense of control over your job prospects. By following the right steps to take after federal layoffs, you can turn this hiccup into an opportunity for better growth. Be it upskilling, networking, or reevaluating your career goals, each step plays an important role in coping with job loss and setting yourself up for future success.
Remember, surviving federal layoffs is not just about being able to find a job in the shortest possible time. It’s about rebuilding and resilience. With a clear plan for what to do after a layoff, you can focus on career recovery and emerge stronger.