Getting laid off can be a jarring experience — especially when it hits unexpectedly. It can shake your confidence, disrupt your routine, and leave you feeling unmoored. But while this chapter might feel like a setback, it can also be the beginning of something better. With the right mindset and strategic action, you can take back control and pivot powerfully into your next opportunity. Here are 10 essential steps you must take immediately after being laid off to protect your interests, stay proactive, and future-proof your career.
Absolutely! Let's walk through each of the 10 power moves in detail — these are strategic steps you should take after being laid off to secure your career, protect your benefits, and prepare for what's next.
Power Moves to Reclaim Your Career After a Layoff
1. Request Your Final Payslip
Your last payslip is more than a formality — it's proof of your earnings and employment history. You may need it to:
- Apply for new jobs
- Process pension withdrawals
- Resolve disputes about unpaid wages
Tip: Request it as soon as possible. Even if you're leaving on bad terms, this is your legal right.
Gather Proof of Your Work
Don't leave without collecting documents that showcase your achievements:
- Performance reviews
- Certificates or awards
- Emails praising your work
- Completed projects or reports
Tip: Download them while you still have access to internal systems.
Ask for Your Pension Statement
If you're in a country like Nigeria with a contributory pension system, request a statement from your Pension Fund Administrator (PFA). This lets you:
- Track your savings
- Understand your balance
- Plan for early withdrawals (e.g., 25% if unemployed for 4+ months)
Tip: Keep your Pension PIN safe — you'll need it when making inquiries.
Review Non-Compete or Exit Agreements
Some companies include non-compete clauses or exit restrictions in contracts. These may limit:
- Where you can work next
- When you can take another job in the same industry
Tip: Read these carefully or consult a legal expert. Violating them could bring legal trouble.
Get an HR Contact for Future Reference
Always leave with a contact in HR. Why?
- You may need employment confirmation in the future
- It helps with follow-ups on pensions, unpaid salaries, etc.
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Tip: Ask politely and get the name, email, and phone number of a helpful HR officer.
Request a Recommendation Letter
A strong recommendation letter can boost your job prospects. Ask your manager or HR to write one while your contributions are still fresh in their memory.
Tip: If a formal letter isn't possible, a LinkedIn recommendation or email works too.
Don't Burn Bridges
Even if the layoff was hurtful, leave with grace.
- Avoid ranting on social media or badmouthing your former employer
- Keep the door open for future opportunities or references
Tip: The professional world is smaller than you think. Your reputation matters.
Update Your CV
Tailor your résumé with your most recent achievements. Highlight:
- Specific contributions (e.g., led a team, saved costs)
- New skills or certifications
- Project results with measurable outcomes
Tip: Consider using a modern CV template and aligning it with current industry trends.
Leverage Your Network
Most jobs are found through connections, not online ads. Let people know you're looking:
- Former colleagues
- Friends and mentors
- LinkedIn and professional groups
Tip: Post an update, engage on industry topics, and reach out personally to trusted contacts.
Upskill
Use your free time to invest in yourself. Learn something new, improve existing skills, or earn a certification.
- Take online courses (Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning)
- Join webinars and industry events
- Learn digital tools relevant to your field
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Tip: Employers value continuous learners. Upskilling keeps you relevant and confident.
Final Word:
Getting laid off isn't the end — it's a chance to pause, pivot, and power forward. By staying proactive and focused, you can turn uncertainty into a fresh opportunity to grow your career stronger than ever.
