It feels like every time I log into LinkedIn there's a new announcement of lay-offs. This past week the news hit especially hard as the lay-offs happened at HubSpot, the organization where I was employed before starting my own business. I still have many friends and clients there which inspired me to write this post. I want to share a few ideas for people who have been laid off and those supporting people who have been laid off. This is an incredibly emotional and vulnerable time for everyone involved. When emotions are high it's often hard to think clearly and create a path forward. I hope to take away that step from those impacted.

You were just laid off, now what?

1. Celebrate yourself. Make a list of everything you accomplished the last year professionally. This should incorporate so much more than metrics. Include projects, presentations, difficult conversations, people you supported, etc. Remind yourself that lay-offs are not your fault and have nothing to do with your performance. They happen because of unforeseen changes in turbulent economic times and/or improper strategic planning at the executive level. One of my favorite exercises is to reach out to three different people (family member, friend and former colleague) and ask them to reflect on your super powers and then share them with you. Lay-off's can often spin us in a negative headspace filled with self doubt. Receiving your super powers will remind you of how incredible you are and could also raise awareness around a new career you may want to pursue.

2. Shift Your Energy. This isn't easy and isn't necessary on day one or even day two. However, once the dust settles it will be extremely helpful to see your lay-off as an opportunity. It's a chance to reset. Personally a long walk in nature, reading a good book or listening to an uplifting podcast helps me to reframe my mind.

3. Revisit your values and passions. You have the time to explore new opportunities and perhaps those look different than the ones you have explored before. Get really clear on what YOU want.

1. What do you like to do? If you could outline your dream job, what would it be?

2. What company values are important to you? How will you make sure your values align with the new organization you join?

3. What do you want leadership to look like at your new organization?

4. What size company or team do you want to work for?

5. What do I want my work schedule to look like and what type of company can provide that to me?

4. Leverage your network. I know it may feel awkward or embarrassing to let people know you've been laid off and need help finding your next position, but your connections are the people that WANT to help you. They know and trust you and will be willing to make introductions and provide recommendations. Start by scheduling 2 coffee chats (in person or virtual) each week. Show up to each conversation with a clear goal and ask. Everyone's time is precious and the more direct you are in sharing your goals and asks, the quicker they can help

5. Practice Patience. I know this may sound super stressful, but the last thing you want to do is jump into a new job that is going to make you miserable. When you're interviewing remember that it is just as much about you as it is about them. YOU are also interviewing the company and everyone you talk to. If a conversation or experience doesn't feel right, trust your gut. Get curious with why it gave you a funny feeling and dig deeper. Find ways to ask behavioral questions that will give you the information that you need to test your gut reaction.

You're supporting someone that's just lost their job, now what?

1. Comfort them. They do not need pity or sorrow, but they do need someone to be there for them. Be that person to check in and listen. Do you best not to insert your thoughts, ideas or perspective unless asked. All they need at this point is support from someone who cares.

2. Ask permission to open up your network. After emotions have leveled, ask them if they'd like for you to open up your network to them. If they would, make introductions where appropriate.

3. Keep reaching out. We're very quick to provide support right after a difficult situation or tragedy unfolds, but sometimes forget to check in after a week or month passes. Set a reminder on your calendar to check in weekly.