10 Must-Do Steps to Take After A Layoff

Layoffs have become an increasingly common reality in today’s volatile global economy. According to a recent report, over 50,000 tech employees were laid off in the first quarter alone, including major companies like Meta, Microsoft, and Google. Even outside tech, sectors from retail to manufacturing are downsizing due to inflation, automation, and shifting markets.

What Does Layoff Mean?

Being laid off means your employer terminates your position primarily due to business reasons such as cost-cutting, restructuring, or downsizing; not necessarily because of poor performance. While layoffs are a business necessity for many companies, the impact on employees is deeply personal and often devastating. It can shake your financial stability and sense of identity.

Understanding that layoffs reflect broader economic trends and company strategies and not your worth is critical to moving forward. This knowledge allows you to approach the situation with a clear head and a strategic mindset.

10 Must-Do Steps to Take After A Layoff

Getting laid off is an unfavourable experience. It is a major life event that can shake you, especially when you do not see it coming. While you may not be in the space to process all of what is going on, taking immediate and strategic actions can help you regain control and prepare for the next chapter of your career. In this piece, we identify 10 essential steps you must take after being laid off.

1. Request for your last payslip

2. Gather proof of your work

3. Ask for Your Pension Statement

4. Get clarity on non-compete or exit agreement

5. Demand HR contact for future reference 

6. Request a recommendation letter

7. Do not burn bridges

8. Update your CV

9. Take advantage of your network 

10. Upskill

1. Request for your last payslip: 

Many employees don’t realize the importance of their last payslip until months after leaving a job, often when a new employer requests it. Some even miss out on great opportunities simply because they’re unwilling to go back and ask for it. And for those who do, it can be a struggle, especially if they parted ways with their former company on bad terms.

Your payslip is more than just a piece of paper. It is proof of your last employment and your last salary. It’s a key document when applying for new jobs, loans, or even processing your pension.

To avoid issues down the line, request your payslip immediately after being laid off. Make sure it accurately reflects all your earnings, including any unpaid wages or benefits. If your employer is reluctant, insist politely. It’s your right. Having it on hand can also help settle any disputes regarding your final payment.

2. Gather Proof of Your Work

Documentation of your contributions and achievements will give you a competitive edge in any job market. Collect performance reviews, project reports, emails that praise your work, and any certificates you earned while employed. This evidence is invaluable when applying for new roles and can strengthen your case during interviews.

If your company used internal platforms or software, download any documents that showcase your work before losing access. In industries where practical experience matters, samples of your work or testimonials from supervisors can significantly enhance your chances of landing a new position.

3. Ask for Your Pension Statement

In Nigeria, the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) mandates that both employers and employees contribute to a pension fund. After a layoff, request a pension statement from your Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) to understand how much has been saved under your Retirement Savings Account (RSA).

This statement will confirm your balance and allow you to track your contributions. If you have been unemployed for at least four months, you may be eligible to withdraw up to 25% of your pension savings. Ensure you have your Personal Identification Number (PIN) ready when contacting your PFA.

4. Get Clarity on Non-Compete or Exit Agreements

Some Nigerian companies include non-compete clauses in employment contracts, which may prevent you from working with competitors or in the same industry for a specific period. Carefully review any documents you signed during your employment to understand any restrictions. If the terms are unclear, seek advice to clarify your obligations. Understanding these agreements can help you avoid legal troubles and plan your next career move effectively.

5. Demand HR Contact for Future Reference

It is essential to have a point of contact within the Human Resources (HR) department for future reference or clarification. This can be helpful when confirming your employment history with future employers or accessing crucial records.

Politely request the contact details of someone within HR who can assist with future inquiries. This may also be beneficial if you need to follow up on your pension contributions, outstanding payments, or work records.

6. Request a Recommendation Letter

A recommendation letter from a former employer carries significant weight in Nigeria's job market. While your contributions are still fresh in their memory, ask your supervisor or HR for a letter that highlights your skills, work ethic, and achievements. If a formal letter is not possible, request an email or LinkedIn recommendation instead. 

7. Do Not Burn Bridges

No matter how emotional you feel about the layoff, it is important to exit gracefully. Nigeria's professional community is often interconnected, and your reputation can follow you. Avoid speaking negatively about your former employer, whether in person or on social media.

8. Update Your CV

Your CV is a critical tool in your job search. After a layoff, revise your resume to reflect your most recent role, accomplishments, and skills. Emphasize any achievements that are relevant to your industry like successful projects. If you're unsure how to structure your resume, consider using a CV template to align with industry preferences.

View 30+ Cover Letter Templates to Land Your Dream Job

9. Take Advantage of Your Network

Most job opportunities are not publicly advertised. The majority are shared through personal and professional networks. Do not make the mistake of keeping quiet. Reach out to former colleagues, friends, and groups to let them know you are seeking new opportunities. Engage on professional platforms like LinkedIn, where you can connect with potential employers and recruiters. 

View LinkedIn Tips: How to Make Your Profile Stand Out In 2025

10. Upskill

Use your layoff period to acquire new skills or improve existing ones. Consider taking online courses, attending workshops, or obtaining certifications that are in demand in your industry. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and DataCamp offer free courses relevant to various fields. Upskilling not only enhances your employability but also demonstrates your commitment to professional growth.

Important Questions to Ask Your Employer During a Layoff

When the layoff news hits, clarity is your best ally. Before you leave, make sure to ask your employer:

• What is my official last working day?
  Knowing this helps you plan your job search and manage finances.

• Am I entitled to severance pay? How much and when will it be paid?
  This is mostly applicable to countries outside Nigeria. Companies like Microsoft have publicly committed to generous severance packages during recent layoffs.

• What happens to my health insurance and other benefits?
  This is important because for some companies, you lose your health insurance benefits with the layoff. 

• Can I get a formal layoff letter or separation notice?
  This is essential for future job applications and unemployment claims.

• Are there any non-compete or confidentiality clauses I need to be aware of?
  Know your post-employment restrictions to avoid legal pitfalls.

• Who should I contact in HR for follow-up questions?
  Keep a contact for document requests or clarification.

Prioritizing Your Well-Being After a Layoff

Layoffs don’t just affect your wallet; they hit your mental health hard. This is corroborated by the American Psychological Association (APA) reports that unemployment increases stress, anxiety, and depression rates significantly.  Nevertheless, you can still beat the effects with the following steps: 

• Allow Yourself to Grieve: It’s normal to feel a swirl of emotions like anger, sadness, confusion. Let yourself feel them without judgment. Talk to a trusted friend or write them down.

• Keep a Routine: When everything feels uncertain, a steady routine can ground you. Try to get up at the same time each day, eat balanced meals, and move your body. It could be a brisk walk, yoga, or a short workout. Regular sleep, nutrition, and exercise are powerful mood stabilizers.

• Seek Support: You don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out to people you trust like family, friends, mentors. If you’re struggling to cope, consider talking to a counselor. Just having someone listen can lift a huge weight.

• Avoid Toxic Outlets: It can be tempting to dive into angry social media rants or negativity, but those only deepen the stress. Instead, seek out supportive spaces maybe a hobby group or an online community that brings you joy. Your well-being is foundational for a successful job search.

The Best Strategies for Finding a New Job After a Layoff

After regrouping, the next goal is securing a new role. Here’s how:

• Leverage Your Network: Don’t be shy about reaching out to people you know like former colleagues, friends, or professional connections. Many jobs come from referrals, and a simple reaching out can make all the difference.

• Tailor Applications: Resist the urge to send out the same CV everywhere. Customize your resume and cover letter for each role, emphasizing the skills and achievements that match what they’re looking for.

• Use Job Platforms: Explore various jobs based on your field on job boards and niche sites. Set aside time each day to see what’s out there.

• Prepare for Interviews: Practice talking about your layoff honestly and positively ahead of interviews. Emphasize what you learned and how you’re ready to bring that to your next role. Anticipate common interview questions and rehearse your answers with a friend if you can.

• Consider Temporary or Freelance Work: If full-time roles aren’t immediately available, try freelance or contract work. They can keep your skills fresh and your confidence high. Plus, they often lead to permanent roles. Keeps skills sharp and income flowing while you search.

 

How to Turn a Layoff into an Opportunity

While painful, a layoff can be a catalyst for growth. It’s a chance to:

• Reassess Career Goals: Are you in the right field? Would a pivot or further education benefit you? Is this an opportunity to shift gears? Maybe there’s a field or industry you’ve always wanted to explore. Reflect on what excites you and where you can thrive.

View What Are Career Goals and How to Set Them

• Start Your Own Venture: Some laid-off workers have launched successful startups or side hustles. It doesn’t have to be big. Testing the waters can be a great way to learn and grow. You never can tell.

• Focus on Learning: Think of the skills or certifications that might open new doors. Online courses, webinars, or even volunteering in a new area can give you fresh perspective and confidence. New skills and certifications can open doors previously closed.

Conclusion

Getting laid off is a phase and it will pass. However, the true test lies in your ability to turn the odds in your favour. By taking swift, strategic actions, you can transform this setback into an opportunity for growth.