Navigating Layoffs
Unfortunately, layoffs, or reductions in force (RIFs) as companies so lovingly call them, are becoming increasingly common, especially across the tech sector. Layoffs.fyi (yes, we really have a site dedicated to tracking layoffs) shows that as of the time of this posting, there have been over 90,000 tech employees laid off in 2025 based on publicly available information. Overall, layoff numbers are significantly up and even reaching 2020 COVID-19 levels according to Trading Economics.
Personally, I am going through my second layoff in just over two years. While I am not a financial, legal, or recruiting expert, I thought it may be helpful to jot down some things that have helped me navigate this process.
Please note that I can only speak from my experience, which is that of an U.S.-based, married, white, male who works in IT in startups. Your mileage may vary. These are only tips that helped me.
Network
This seems like a no-brainer to list first. Network? Of course. But what does network even mean? The first thing I’ve done upon being notified of impacts to my role has been posting on every single one of my social networking platforms. I’m not kidding, every single one. Spread the word as far as you possibly can that you are looking and let people know exactly what you are looking for. This is the time when someone can introduce you to someone or recall a posting they saw the other day that you might miss. Also, I’ve found that people often times are willing to share incredibly thoughtful messages of support when sharing your post, and who doesn’t want to read kind words from friends/colleagues?
Reduce Spending + Review Income Sources
This one may seem like another obvious one, but when was the last time you seriously went through your budget line by line and looked at every subscription you have? Cut all the little items that you can live without for a few months while you search for your next opportunity. The little stuff adds up very quickly. Don’t be afraid to reach out to lenders, schools, banks, etc. and let them know what is going on so they can assist you (again, not a financial export so do what is best for your situation). Look into any additional sources of revenue you can find. Offer up tech support in your local community for a competitive hourly rate. Drive for ride share if you can. Find a short term contract position while you search for that next dream job.
Lean Into Your Tribe
You are not alone. Let me repeat that. You are not alone. You are a part of a community somewhere: your family, your friends, your church, your social group, MacAdmins, etc. Don’t keep your struggles inside. You aren’t the only one going through this and so many other people have gone through this before you.
Don’t Burn Out
See above. Take a day off from the job search grind to find some breathing room with your tribe. You aren’t doing yourself or anyone else a favor if you crash and burn from the constant stress of applying, interviewing, getting rejection emails, worrying about bills, etc. You are allowed to stop for a day and step away to recover. It will all still be there tomorrow.
Talk to Someone
Find professional therapy help. You may not be able to afford paid therapy and that is ok. There are tons of sliding scale community resources available if you look for them. Having a professional available to talk to, guide you, and give you tools so that you can have a healthy mind space while you go on this journey is essential. Stay healthy.
(Consider) - Explore Certifications
This may not be possible, but explore growing your skillset by getting additional certifications in your career field or areas of interest. Even if you can’t afford a paid certification, showing that you are working towards a certification on your resume can go a long way with hiring teams.
(Consider) - Career Pivot
This is another one that may not be for everyone or even possible, but use this opportunity to fully examine yourself and if you are where you truly want to be (remember that it is ok to change). Maybe this is the time to pivot into something adjacent to what you were doing prior to your layoff. Maybe this is the time to change careers entirely. The beauty of it is that the options are truly endless if you want to make it happen.
Stay well out there, friends, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need someone to talk to. I’m always happy to lend an ear or point you to a great community.